Archive · 16 Sep 2025
Government Cracks Down on E-commerce 'Dark Patterns'
Imagine websites using tricks to get you to buy things, like making you feel rushed or hiding bad reviews.
The government is now stepping in to stop these tricks, called 'dark patterns.'
The Department of Consumer Affairs issued guidelines in November 2023, defining 13 such practices and they are considered unfair trade practices.
Companies using these tricks could face legal action, including surprise inspections.
The government also wants to make sure that if taxes go down (like with GST), the savings go to the customers.
Companies like Zepto, Uber, and Ola have been warned.
Government targets e-commerce companies using 'dark patterns'.
Dark patterns are considered unfair trade practices.
Legal action against violators may include raids.
The Department of Consumer Affairs issued guidelines in November 2023.
The government is ensuring GST benefits are passed to consumers.
- Who
- Department of Consumer Affairs
- What
- Cracking down on 'dark patterns' in e-commerce
- When
- November 2023 (guidelines issued)
- Where
- E-commerce platforms
- Why
- To protect consumers from deceptive online practices and ensure they receive GST benefits.
Consumer Advocacy
E-commerce Operators
Transparency
Consumer Advocacy
Consumers should have access to all product information and unbiased reviews.
E-commerce Operators
E-commerce firms seek to optimize customer experience and profits which may entail strategic content management.
- Focus
- Government action against deceptive e-commerce practices
- Government Body
- Department of Consumer Affairs
- Action
- Treating dark patterns as unfair trade practices, legal scrutiny, and raids
- Examples of Dark Patterns
- AI misinformation, hidden bad reviews, false urgency, subscription traps
- Guidelines Issued
- November 2023, identifying 13 dark patterns
- Companies Notified
- Zepto, Uber, Ola, among others
- Additional Action
- Ensuring GST cut benefits are passed to consumers
Sources
Dark Patterns Under Scrutiny As Consumer Affairs Body Warns of Crackdown on E-Commerce Companies
Centre Warns E-Commerce Giants: Stop Tricking Shoppers With 'Dark Patterns' Or Face Legal Heat; Details
