Government Takes Action to Curb Deceptive Tactics by E-commerce Platforms

The Indian government has banned the use of "dark patterns" by e-commerce and online platforms, considering it an unfair trading practice. Dark patterns are deceptive design practices that manipulate users into unintended purchases or actions. Offenders can face fines and penal action from the Central Consumer Protection Authority, and the guidelines apply to all platforms offering goods or services. Thirteen deceptive practices, including false urgency and basket sneaking, have been defined as dark patterns.