Action will be taken against e-commerce entities using dark patterns: Consumer Affairs Secy
(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
India’s Central Government is taking a strong stand against sneaky tricks used by e-commerce platforms to fool shoppers. These tactics, known as “dark patterns,” push consumers into buying things they didn’t plan to or signing up for unwanted subscriptions. Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare shared these details in a chat with on Tuesday, stressing that such practices count as unfair trade and could lead to serious legal trouble.
“AI can spread fake news and propaganda, and e-commerce sites are pulling off all sorts of dark patterns—like burying bad reviews or creating fake urgency,” Khare explained. She pointed out that the Department of Consumer Affairs rolled out clear guidelines last year to stop these manipulative designs. Common examples include subscription traps, bait-and-switch pricing (where you see one price but get hit with another), and hiding negative feedback.
Khare urged online sellers to do a quick self-check and ditch these tricks right away. “If we catch anyone using dark patterns, it’ll be seen as unfair trade practice, and the law will step in,” she warned. The department is also pushing e-commerce companies to sign a “safety pledge.” This means using tech to block the sale of harmful, regulated, or banned products on their sites.
Violators could face tough action, including surprise raids on warehouses. “We’ve seen raids uncover substandard goods that shouldn’t be sold,” Khare said. The government holds regular meetings with big players to raise awareness and crack down on these issues.
One big problem? Fake or paid reviews that mislead buyers. “People trust online reviews when shopping for food, shoes, or wellness products, but they might get duped by dishonest ones,” Khare added. She noted that even bad reviews often get buried or ignored, so shoppers only see what the platform wants them to.
Back in November 2023, the department listed 13 specific dark patterns in its guidelines. So far, they’ve sent 11 notices to companies like Zepto, Uber, and Ola for violations.
On the brighter side, the government is easing rules for businesses through decriminalization, cutting down on compliance headaches. “We want manufacturers, sellers, and dealers to focus on quality and correct quantities—legal metrology ensures that,” Khare said. They’re also making sure GST rate cuts reach everyday consumers, teaming up with groups like FICCI, CII, and CAIT to pass on the savings.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
