In the midst of an unprecedented surge in India’s e-commerce sector, a troubling trend has emerged—online retail firms resorting to deceptive tactics that compromise consumer interests.
These dubious maneuvers, commonly referred to as “dark patterns,” involve employing misleading design elements to coerce users into taking actions or making decisions that may not align with their best interests.
Recognizing the potential harm posed by such practices, the central government has taken decisive action to ban dark patterns, aligning with the standards set by the Consumer Protection Authority (CPA). This proactive step is aimed at shielding consumers from manipulative strategies, with a primary focus on ensuring transparency and fairness in the e-commerce landscape.
The government’s move is strategically designed to curb the misuse of user data and address concerns related to unauthorized transactions. The ban on dark patterns extends its reach to encompass all e-commerce platforms and applications offering a spectrum of services and products.
This initiative reflects the central government’s unwavering commitment to upholding consumer rights and maintaining digital ethics. By cracking down on dark patterns, India aims to foster a more trustworthy and consumer-friendly online retail environment, reinforcing its dedication to a fair and transparent digital marketplace.
Engaging in any form of transaction involving the purchase of goods or services on the dark web may result in consumers being deceived or misled. The Central Government has included 13 types of activities under the ban on dark patterns. Here are some of the prohibited practices:
· Encouraging individuals to purchase items by creating artificial scarcity.
· Transitioning users from free trial periods to paid services without notifying them.
· Concealing payment-related information from individuals during specific time periods.
· Including charges for certain services in a different category (pretext).
· Concealing information about services and products on the card.
· Offering apps or subscriptions with the condition that services are available only if paid.
· Unnecessarily storing Aadhar card, credit card details, and other sensitive information.
· Altering the subscription cancellation process or changing the cancellation option.
· Offering free games apps that turn into paid services after seven days.
· Urging users to buy immediately by indicating limited stock availability.
· Showing lower-priced products first and directing users to higher-priced ones.
· Displaying a new advertisement when clicking the close button on pop-up windows.
· Encouraging immediate booking by displaying high demand or low stock.
Additionally, users are prompted to buy products immediately by showcasing limited remaining quantities. Users are advised to check the actual and higher prices of products, especially when presented with lower-priced items. Closing pop-up windows using the close button may result in new advertisements. Consumers are also encouraged to be cautious when making payments for services that promise a subscription for six months after a one-time payment.
