New -delhi [India]October 5 (Ani): The Department of Consumer Affairs received several complaints against e-commerce platforms for charging extra fees under different names, a practice that classified the government as a ‘dark pattern’ that deceives and exploited consumers. Pralhad Joshi, Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy, shared the information on X, saying that the ministry began a detailed investigation into the case. He said: “The Department of Consumer Affairs has received complaints against e-commerce platforms that pay extra for cash-on-delivery, a practice classified as a dark pattern that deceives and exploits consumers. A detailed investigation has been taken and steps are being taken to investigate these platforms. Strict action will be done against the violation of the consumer.” The post followed a user on X who shared a screenshot of an e-commerce website listing several extra fees, including ‘Presentation Fee’, ‘Pay Handling Fee’ and ‘Protect Promise Fee’. These costs have relatively increased the total cost of the article, even after discounts have been applied, which has resulted in customers paying more than the displayed price. After the minister’s answer, several users joined the discussion, expressing their dissatisfaction and sharing similar experiences. Many people have pointed out that such extra costs on different platforms are common, making online shopping more expensive and confusing. Some users also questioned the transparency of these practices and asked for stricter monitoring and regulation. Dark patterns refer to manipulative design strategies or pricing tactics used by digital platforms to mislead consumers to make unintentional purchases or enter into hidden fees. In recent months, the Department of Consumer Affairs has actively identified and warned against such practices, focusing on the protection of users in India’s fast -growing digital market. As consumers are increasingly relying on online shopping, the Ministry of the Ministry is expected to be more investigated by digital platforms and strengthen the standards for fair trade. (Ani)
Govt launches investigation into e-commerce platforms on extra costs classified as a dark pattern
