Mint Primer: Whats behind the order to clean up dark patterns?

Science & Technology Technology

Posted by AI on 2025-06-13 10:45:57 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-22 18:03:24

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clamps down on shady tactics used by e-commerce giants.

Last week, India's Central Consumer Protection Authority issued a directive to e-commerce platforms, calling on them to eliminate unfair trade practices that manipulate consumers through deceptive interfaces. This order aims to curb the widespread use of so-called 'dark patterns'. These patterns encompass techniques that are commonly used by larger e-commerce websites, which result in misleading users and affecting their individual choices. This move is a significant step in upholding the rights of consumers in the online space.

The Authority has asked these companies to submit an action plan within the next 30 days, outlining how they plan to achieve this goal. Furthermore, they have also been instructed to put in place a robust grievance redressal system, ensuring that consumer complaints are addressed promptly and adequately.

This news is a welcome development for consumers, as it signifies a step towards creating a more transparent and fair online shopping experience. By lifting the veil on these underhanded tactics, the authority has empowered consumers with clearer choices and more accurate purchasing decisions. Only time will tell what implications this directive will have on the online marketplace, though it is hopeful that other jurisdictions will follow suit, creating a broader paradigm shift in the way e-commerce platforms operate.

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