Archive · 30 Nov 2025
E-commerce firms asked to explain dark patterns
The government in India has asked 15 big online shopping and delivery companies to explain why they still have sneaky tricks on their websites and apps.
These tricks, like hiding extra charges or making it hard to cancel subscriptions, are not allowed.
The companies had already said they had fixed these issues, but the government found them still there.
Now, the companies have to explain what they did to fix the problems and why some tricks are still around.
The government might punish them if they don't give good answers.
They want to make sure these companies follow the rules to protect people who shop online.
The government has asked 15 e-commerce platforms to explain the presence of dark patterns on their platforms despite their self-declarations of compliance.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) sent notices to these companies between November 24 and 28, 2023.
Dark patterns in question include drip pricing, hidden charges, forced action, and subscription traps.
The companies have been asked to explain the corrective steps taken and why certain patterns still appear in customer journeys.
The government is examining whether the declarations made by the platforms were complete or if gaps remain between stated compliance and actual user experience.
- Who
- E-commerce platforms including Zomato, Blinkit, Swiggy, Amazon, Flipkart, Walmart India, Myntra, Cleartrip, MakeMyTrip, BigBasket, Axelia, Netmeds, Tata 1mg, JioMart, and Ixigo
- What
- The government has asked these companies to explain the presence of dark patterns on their platforms despite their self-declarations of compliance
- When
- Between November 24 and 28, 2023
- Where
- India
- Why
- To ensure compliance with the Consumer Protection Act and the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023
- Companies Involved
- Zomato, Blinkit, Swiggy, Amazon, Flipkart, Walmart India, Myntra, Cleartrip, MakeMyTrip, BigBasket, Axelia, Netmeds, Tata 1mg, JioMart, Ixigo
- Date of Notices
- November 24-28, 2023
- Dark Patterns in Question
- Drip pricing, hidden charges, forced action, subscription traps
- Regulatory Body
- Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA)
- Guidelines Issued
- Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023
- Number of Prohibited Practices
- 13
- Self-Audit Deadline
- Three months from November 30, 2023