The government has prohibited the utilization of “dark patterns” – intentionally crafted deceptive tactics – by e-commerce and all other online platforms during the sale of goods and services. These tactics manipulate customers, coercing them into unintended sign-ups or purchases and enticing them to buy pricier products. This has been officially labeled by the government as an “unfair trading practice.”
According to the Consumer Protection Act, those found in violation may be subject to fines and legal consequences imposed by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA). Additionally, they may be brought to trial before consumer commissions.
In a notice published in the gazette by the CCPA titled “Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns,” the authority has elucidated “dark patterns” as any technique or “deceptive design pattern” employing user interface or user experience interactions on any platform. These are intentionally crafted to mislead or deceive users into performing actions they did not intend or desire.
The legally supported guidelines will be applicable to all platforms engaged in the systematic provision of goods or services, including advertisers and sellers.
The ministry has outlined 13 deceptive practices categorized as ‘dark patterns.’ These practices encompass generating false urgency through an artificial sense of scarcity, engaging in basket sneaking by adding extra items to exceed the original product’s cost, and setting up subscription traps.