26 E-Commerce Platforms Declare ‘No Dark Patterns’ After Self-Audit

• 26 major platforms confirm compliance with Dark Patterns Guidelines 2023
• Self-audit and third-party audits conducted to eliminate deceptive UI practices
• CCPA terms declarations exemplary, pushes more firms to follow
• Complaints through NCH to be closely monitored for violations

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 20th Nov: In a move aimed at strengthening consumer protection in the digital marketplace, 26 prominent e-commerce platforms have voluntarily declared full compliance with the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023. The platforms have conducted internal or third-party self-audits to ensure that no deceptive interface designs are used to mislead customers.

The companies have confirmed that their websites and apps are free from dark patterns — manipulative design elements that trick users into unintended actions such as forced subscriptions, hidden charges or misleading choices.

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has welcomed the initiative and described it as an industry-best practice that reinforces fair trade values. The authority has also directed these platforms to display their compliance declarations prominently on their websites, while the documents are available on the CCPA portal for public access.

Encouraging more companies to adopt similar measures, the CCPA emphasised that ethical design is crucial to maintaining consumer trust and sustaining long-term growth in India’s rapidly expanding digital economy. It warned that exploitative practices not only harm customers but also damage brand credibility.

Consumers are being sensitised to identify and report dark patterns through the National Consumer Helpline, awareness campaigns and outreach programmes. The CCPA said it remains vigilant and is prepared to take strict action against any e-commerce platform found violating the guidelines.