Consumer Affairs Ministry to Probe Hidden Charges on E-Commerce Platforms

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi Launches Full Investigation Into E-commerce ‘Dark Patterns’ Following Public Backlash

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Friday, said that the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) is looking into e-commerce companies like Flipkart and Amazon because they are accused of using “dark patterns,” which are deceptive user interface practices meant to trick and take advantage of customers. The complaints are mostly about platforms that charge extra costs, which are sometimes disguised, especially for the popular Cash-on-Delivery (CoD) pay…

Consumer Affairs Ministry to Probe Hidden Charges on E-Commerce Platforms

The Department of Consumer Affairs has launched an investigation into e-commerce platforms for allegedly imposing hidden charges on cash-on-delivery (COD) orders. These fees, often added during checkout, have triggered consumer complaints. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi called the practice a “dark pattern” that misleads and exploits buyers. The ministry is now scrutinizing these platforms and promises strict action to uphold transparency and prote…

CCPA Probing Ecommerce Platforms For Cash On Delivery Dark Patterns

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has begun investigating complaints against ecommerce platforms for charging additional fees on cash-on-delivery (CoD) orders. Responding to a post on X, consumer affairs minister Pralhad Joshi said that the Department of Consumer Affairs has received multiple complaints from consumers highlighting that platforms are charging extra for CoD.  The minister added that this practice has been classified…