India’s consumer protection watchdog has ramped up its scrutiny of online platforms, issuing a sweeping advisory that targets manipulative user interface designs, commonly referred to as dark patterns, across a broad spectrum of the digital economy.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has directed more than 50 companies, including e-commerce majors, travel portals, food delivery apps, fintech firms, ride-hailing services, and meditech start-ups, to conduct self-audits and eliminate deceptive design practices within three months.
According to PIB, the advisory, dated June 7, warns platforms about persistent violations of existing norms despite earlier warnings. It cites Rule 4(9) of the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020, which explicitly requires consumer consent for purchases to be freely given, ruling out auto-filled checkboxes and similar tactics.
Shoppers can finally expect fewer sneaky tricks when they shop, book, or browse online. Thanks to the new government push, platforms will have to stop using misleading tactics, like slipping items into your cart, making it hard to cancel a subscription, or nudging you into quick decisions with fake urgency. Instead, you’ll start seeing clearer choices, honest prompts, and fewer hidden catches, making it easier to trust what you’re clicking on.
Dark patterns refer to interface features that trick users into making unintended choices, such as unknowingly subscribing to services, sharing personal data, or purchasing items. Common tactics include “basket sneaking” (auto-adding products to a cart), “false urgency” (fake limited-time offers), “confirm shaming” (guilt-based nudges), and “subscription traps” (making cancellation difficult).
This is one of the most comprehensive actions yet by the CCPA, which has begun actively monitoring digital consumer experiences across sectors. The move signals the regulator’s intent to promote transparency, informed consent, and fair play in online commerce.
Flipkart, one of the companies named in the advisory, welcomed the move. In a statement, the Walmart-owned platform said, “Our commitment to running a transparent, technology-driven marketplace aligns with the government’s goals. We continuously self-audit to ensure full compliance and view this advisory as a reaffirmation of our core values.”
However, not all firms responded in kind. One platform, unnamed in the report, acknowledged the advisory but argued that dark pattern guidelines are not legally enforceable, and described such design elements as “experiments” to improve user engagement.
The CCPA’s outreach covered a wide range of major players, including Amazon, Meesho, Paytm, Uber, Apple, Meta, Nykaa, Zomato, Swiggy, Tata 1mg, BookMyShow, BigBasket, Namma Yatri, and Snapdeal. As of press time, most had not issued official responses.