26 E-Commerce Platforms Declare Compliance with Dark Pattern Prevention Guidelines: Government

In a major boost to consumer protection in the digital marketplace, 26 prominent e-commerce platforms have voluntarily submitted self-declaration letters confirming full compliance with the government’s directive to eliminate dark patterns, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution said on Thursday.

This compliance with the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023 marks a significant step forward in India’s efforts to curb deceptive online design practices that mislead or manipulate users.

According to the Ministry, the platforms conducted internal self-audits or independent third-party audits to identify and eliminate any dark patterns. “All 26 companies have declared that their platforms are free from dark patterns and do not deploy any manipulative user interface designs,” it stated.

The move reflects a strong commitment to transparency, fair digital trade practices, and ethical user experience design.

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) welcomed the declarations, calling them “exemplary,” and encouraged other companies to adopt similar self-regulatory practices.

To ensure broader compliance, the CCPA had issued an advisory on June 5, 2025, directing all e-commerce platforms and online service providers to complete a mandatory self-audit within three months. The advisory stressed clear disclosures, explicit consent mechanisms, and non-manipulative design structures.

The Ministry also noted that efforts are underway to educate consumers—through the National Consumer Helpline, social media campaigns, videos, and outreach programmes—on identifying and reporting dark patterns. Reported complaints are being actively addressed, with enforcement measures being considered where necessary.

Reaffirming strict oversight, the CCPA said it will continue to monitor potential violations and will take action against platforms found using deceptive design practices.

With inputs from IANS