Buying groceries or booking a flight takes just a few clicks. But what if the app’s design is quietly influencing the choices you make?
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has taken action against nine digital platforms over “dark patterns”, online tricks that can push users towards unwanted choices.
From hidden charges to pre-selected options, here’s what the regulator flagged and what companies like Zepto, BookMyShow, IndiGo and Physics Wallah said.
What Are Dark Patterns?
Dark patterns are user interface designs that can push consumers towards decisions they may not have actively intended to make.
Instead of directly misleading users, these practices often rely on how choices are displayed on an app or website.
The CCPA notified the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023, which identify 13 types of deceptive design practices.
These include:
Basket sneaking: Adding additional products, services or contributions without clear user consent.
Drip pricing: Showing extra charges only later during the purchase process.
Confirm shaming: Using messages that make users feel pressured for rejecting an option.
Subscription traps: Making cancellation of recurring services difficult.
False urgency: Creating pressure through countdowns or limited-time messaging.
Trick questions: Using confusing wording that may lead users to choose an unintended option.
CCPA’s Dark Pattern Action Against Zepto, BookMyShow, IndiGo And Others
The CCPA said digital platforms must provide clear information and help consumers make informed decisions.
The regulator stressed that consent should be voluntary and not influenced by auto-selected options or confusing app designs.
The action against nine digital platforms focused on concerns like hidden charges, pre-selected options and unclear user journeys to improve transparency in online transactions.
Zepto
Zepto was questioned over checkout charges. The company said the fees were disclosed and covered operational costs like delivery and packaging.
BookMyShow
BookMyShow was flagged over an auto-selected Rs. One BookASmile contribution. It later made the option voluntary.
IndiGo
IndiGo faced scrutiny over paid seat selection and confirm shaming concerns. The airline clarified that passengers could skip seat selection.
Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah was fined Rs. Five lakh over a pre-selected Rs. 10 PW Foundation donation option. It said it discontinued the flagged practices.
Other Platforms
FirstCry, PharmEasy, McAfee, SpiceJet and Anuj Jindal also faced penalties ranging from Rs. One lakh to Rs. Three lakh. The government said total penalties reached around Rs. 20 lakh.
Government’s Message To Digital Platforms
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has said companies must ensure that digital platforms remain transparent and consumer-friendly.
The CCPA has encouraged businesses to review their user interfaces and remove designs that may influence consumer decisions through misleading methods.
The regulator’s action highlights the growing focus on consumer protection in India’s digital marketplace.
Why Dark Patterns Matter For App Users
For people who use shopping, travel, education and entertainment apps every day, small design choices can affect the final transaction.
An extra charge appearing at checkout, an automatically selected option or a confusing subscription setting can change what users pay for.
The CCPA’s action highlights the importance of checking the final bill, reviewing selected options and understanding payment details before confirming online purchases.
TL;DR | News At Glance
What are dark patterns?
They are digital designs that can influence users into making choices they may not have intended.
Why did CCPA act against platforms?
The regulator raised concerns over practices such as hidden charges, automatic selections and unclear digital journeys.
What happened with Zepto?
The company was questioned over charges appearing during checkout.
Why was BookMyShow examined?
The CCPA raised concerns over an automatically selected Rs. 1 BookASmile contribution option.
Why did IndiGo face scrutiny?
The airline’s seat selection process was reviewed over how paid options were presented.
Why was Physics Wallah fined?
The platform received a Rs. 5 lakh penalty over a pre-selected Rs. 10 donation option and other flagged practices.
How many dark patterns are listed in India’s guidelines?
The CCPA’s 2023 guidelines identify 13 types of deceptive interface designs.
