India’s government has reminded major technology companies, including Amazon, Apple, and Uber, that local laws prohibit the use of dark patterns – deceptive design practices that mislead consumers. The Department of Consumer Affairs held a meeting with tech giants in late 2023 to address these practices.
The Indian government consulted with both local and global tech companies in mid-2023 to develop formal Guidelines on Dark Patterns. Companies such as Amazon, Google, Meta, Flipkart, and Zomato participated in the consultation process. These guidelines were later incorporated into local consumer affairs laws.
Consumer Affairs Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi urged companies to fully comply with the guidelines and integrate them into their internal governance. Officials noted that dark patterns lead to issues such as unintended purchases, privacy violations, and increased digital addiction. The guidelines outline 13 types of dark patterns that companies must avoid.
While Minister Joshi stopped short of threatening immediate government action, he emphasized that companies should proactively remove dark patterns in their own self-interest. “This is not just regulatory compliance – it’s about building trust with your consumers,” he stated. The Department remains open to continued collaboration with industry stakeholders to maintain a fair digital marketplace.
The government’s move comes amid rising consumer complaints about deceptive online practices. India’s stance on dark patterns reflects its commitment to protecting consumers in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
