E-commerce firms asked to explain dark patterns

ZOMATO, AMAZON & SWIGGY AMONG 15 TO GET CCPA NOTICES

- YARUQHULLAH KHAN

THE GOVERNMENT HAS asked e-commerce platforms to explain why dark patterns are still appearing on their platforms despite having filed self-declarations claiming compliance.

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has written to 15 companies between November 24 and 28 after officials spotted deceptive design tactics on their apps and websites that are prohibited under the consumer protection rules.

These companies are: Zomato, Blinkit, Swiggy, Amazon, Flipkart, Walmart India, Myntra, Cleartrip, MakeMyTrip, BigBasket, Axelia, Netmeds, Tata 1mg, JioMart and Ixigo.

Officials told FE that the letters seek details on the presence of dark patterns such as drip pricing or hidden charges, forced action and subscription traps. These tactics, classified as unfair trade practices under the Consumer Protection Act, are allegedly continuing to influence consumer decisions online even after voluntary compliance submissions.