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2h ago

CCPA Fines Nine Platforms for Using Deceptive 'Dark Patterns'

The regulator told the Rajya Sabha that targeted firms must remove pre‑selected charges, misleading timers and coercive opt‑outs, signaling a move from warnings to active enforcement.

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has penalised nine digital platforms, including IndiGo, Zepto, FirstCry, Physics Wallah and others.
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Zepto, IndiGo, Physics Wallah Among 9 Platforms Penalised By CCPA For 'Dark Patterns'
2. Zepto, IndiGo Lead List of 9 Platforms Penalised by CCPA for Deceptive User Practices | Image: AI (Representative)

Overview

  • The Central Consumer Protection Authority told Parliament that it has penalised nine digital platforms and collected about ₹20 lakh in total fines for using user‑interface tricks that push consumers toward paid choices.
  • The agency used the Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023 framework, which lists 13 specific deceptive designs such as drip pricing, basket sneaking, subscription traps, false urgency and confirm‑shaming to classify violations.
  • Regulator findings and remedies include Zepto being fined ₹7 lakh for showing lower prices then adding handling charges and membership fees, Physics Wallah paying ₹5 lakh for a pre‑selected ₹10 donation and emotionally persuasive messaging, and IndiGo changing a shaming opt‑out message to a neutral formulation after intervention.
  • Other firms fined or directed to stop practices include FirstCry (₹2 lakh), Anuj Jindal (₹3 lakh), PharmaEasy (₹1 lakh), McAfee (₹1 lakh), SpiceJet (₹1 lakh) and BookMyShow being told to remove a pre‑ticked ₹1 charity contribution.
  • The CCPA issued a June 2025 advisory asking platforms to self‑audit and the recent penalties show the regulator is following up on those audits; consumers should expect clearer consent and pricing at checkout and companies face ongoing compliance and reputational risk.