Government orders probe into e-commerce 'dark patterns' after complaints over hidden charges

The government has ordered a probe into e-commerce platforms accused of adding hidden charges under misleading names - a practice described by the Department of Consumer Affairs as a "dark pattern". The move follows a series of consumer complaints about platforms inflating prices with unexplained fees despite showing discounts upfront, according to ANI. Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi said in a post on X that a detailed investigation had begun.

He said the ministry had received several complaints about e-commerce platforms charging extra for services such as Cash-on-Delivery and that such practices mislead and exploit consumers. "Strict action will be taken against those violating consumer rights," Joshi said.

What the govt means by 'dark patterns'

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'Dark patterns' are design or pricing tricks used by digital platforms to mislead users into actions they might not otherwise take - such as paying hidden fees or agreeing to unnecessary add-ons.

The Department of Consumer Affairs has been flagging such practices over recent months, warning companies against deceptive design and misleading discounts.

Officials said the current probe would help identify specific violations and push platforms to clean up their pricing structures. The ministry has been working on stronger consumer protection measures for the digital marketplace, where millions of transactions now take place daily.

Focus on fair trade and transparency

The government's latest move signals a wider push to bring more transparency to e-commerce operations. Officials said the findings of the probe could lead to stricter disclosure norms and penalties for companies that repeatedly violate fair trade rules.

With online shopping now central to everyday life, the ministry said it wants to ensure that consumers are not misled or overcharged by platforms using hidden fees or unclear pricing. The investigation is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen trust in India’s fast-growing digital economy.