Ecommerce companies come under scrutiny amid complaints of dark pattern norm violations: Report

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) is scrutinizing ecommerce companies after consumer complaints of unfair trade practices rose

Updated on: Oct 11, 2024, 18:00:42 IST

By HT News Desk

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The government is planning to crack down on ecommerce companies after receiving multiple consumer complaints alleging the flouting of norms regarding dark patterns during the ongoing festive season sales, according to an Economic Times report.

Dark patterns are considered unfair trade practises and offences under consumer protection laws (Representational Image/Pixabay)

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What are dark patterns?

Dark patterns refer to deceptive techniques which online platforms use like sneaking something extra into the cart during checkout, forcing memberships, or even creating a false sense of urgency such as by claiming there is ‘only 1 item left.’

These are all considered unfair trade practises and offences under consumer protection laws, with the Ministry of Consumer Affairs notifying rules by defining 13 such practises last year.

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Fashion, personal care, ecommerce, food & beverages, and finance are categories facing the most violations, according to the report, which added that the practice has become more prevalent in the festive season which accounts for up to 35% of annual sales for several companies.

The report quoted an unnamed senior official as saying that the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) which comes under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs is examining the situation and will act against the companies involved.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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