New Delhi: The Government of India has intensified its efforts to safeguard consumer interests by urging e-commerce platforms to identify and eliminate dark patterns – manipulative design tactics used to influence online consumer behavior unethically.
In a significant move, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued an advisory instructing e-commerce platforms to conduct mandatory self-audits and submit compliance declarations within three months.
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Dark patterns are defined as misleading design elements that trick users into unintended actions, including drip pricing, false urgency, bait and switch, subscription traps, and disguised ads. These practices qualify as unfair trade practices under Section 2(47) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
The advisory, issued on June 5, 2025, follows a strategic meeting held on May 28, chaired by the Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, which brought together representatives from top e-commerce companies, industry bodies, consumer advocacy groups, and legal experts.
As per the advisory:
- All e-commerce platforms must perform a self-audit to identify any presence of dark patterns within their digital interfaces.
- Platforms must submit self-declarations stating their compliance and affirming the removal of such deceptive elements.
Joint Working Group to Oversee Implementation by E-Commerce Platforms
A Joint Working Group comprising ministry officials, National Law University representatives, and voluntary consumer organizations will oversee the implementation and support creation of an ethical e-commerce ecosystem.
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The CCPA had earlier issued the “Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023” identifying 13 types of dark patterns to be addressed urgently in the e-commerce sector.
This policy initiative is a major stride toward creating a transparent, ethical, and consumer-first digital economy aligned with global standards.
This information was given by the Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, B L Verma in a written reply today in the Rajya Sabha.
