Archive · 7 Aug 2025
E-Commerce Dark Patterns: How Apps Use Tricks to Lure Shoppers
Online shopping websites and apps sometimes use tricky methods, called "dark patterns", to get you to buy things.
These include making you think items are almost sold out or hiding extra fees until the last moment.
This is against the law.
The government has made rules to stop these tricks, like 'basket sneaking' where extra items are added to your cart without asking.
The government also wants companies to check themselves to make sure they aren't using these tricks on their websites.
E-commerce platforms use 'dark patterns' to influence consumer choices, such as creating false urgency.
The Consumer Protection Act of 2019 categorizes dark patterns as 'unfair trade practices', potentially leading to penalties.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority issued guidelines in 2023, identifying 13 dark patterns in e-commerce.
Dark patterns include tactics like 'basket sneaking,' 'confirm shaming,' and subscription traps.
The government has advised e-commerce platforms to avoid deceptive practices and conduct self-audits.
- Who
- E-commerce platforms and consumers are involved, with the government taking action.
- What
- E-commerce platforms are employing deceptive 'dark patterns' to manipulate consumer behavior.
- When
- The Central Consumer Protection Authority issued guidelines on dark patterns in November 2023.
- Where
- These practices occur on e-commerce platforms and apps.
- Why
- E-commerce platforms use dark patterns to boost sales. The government aims to prevent unfair practices and protect consumers.
Consumers
E-Commerce Platforms
Impact of Dark Patterns
Consumers
Consumers are often unaware of or harmed by dark patterns used by e-commerce platforms.
E-Commerce Platforms
E-commerce platforms may see the use of such practices as a way to increase sales and revenue.
- Dark Patterns
- Deceptive tactics used by e-commerce platforms
- Consumer Protection Act 2019
- Defines dark patterns as 'unfair trade practices'
- Guidelines Issued
- November 30, 2023, by the Central Consumer Protection Authority
- Identified Dark Patterns
- 13, including 'basket sneaking' and subscription traps
- Government Action
- Advising platforms to conduct self-audits and remove deceptive practices