Consumer Affairs Ministry cautions e-commerce platforms against deceptive dark patterns

The Department of Consumer Affairs cautioned e-commerce platforms on Tuesday against use of use of deceptive user interface designs also known as “dark patterns” as it will be considered as “unfair trade practice” and violation of consumer rights.

Addressing a stakeholder session, Nidhi Khare, Secretary, DoCA stressed on the need to refrain from using such deceptive designs that may mislead consumers into making unintended purchases or subscriptions.