Dark Patterns on Digital Platforms (Current Events)
Dark Patterns on Digital Platforms (Current Events)
Why In News:The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) imposed penalties on PhysicsWallah (₹5 lakh) and McAfee (₹1 lakh) for using dark patterns that mislead consumers and impair informed decision-making.
What are Dark Patterns?:Dark patterns are deceptive UI/UX design techniques used by digital platforms to manipulate user behaviour — typically into spending more money, sharing more data, or subscribing to services they do not intend to.
Common types include: False urgency, Basket sneaking, Confirm shaming, Subscription traps, Roach motel, Disguised advertisements, Trick questions.
Regulatory Framework — India:
Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023:
Notified by the Department of Consumer Affairs under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Effective from 30 November 2023.
Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA): Established under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Headquartered in New Delhi. Has quasi-judicial powers to impose penalties, recall products, and issue directions.The CCPA can impose a fine of up to ₹10 lakh and up to ₹50 lakh for repeat violations.
Key Facts for Prelims:
Consumer Protection Act, 2019 replaced the Consumer Protection Act, 1986. Added e-commerce to its scope explicitly.
Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions: District (up to ₹50 Lakhs), State (₹50 Lakhs–2 crore), National (above ₹2 crore).