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Digital platforms play a central role in how consumers browse, decide and transact. The way platforms design user experiences directly influences user behaviour and expectations. However, subtle design choices can sometimes pressure users into actions they did not intend, raising concerns around transparency and fairness. These practices, often referred to as dark patterns, involve deceptive design elements that influence user decisions in ways that may not align with their original intent. In view of this, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has directed all e-commerce platforms to conduct self-audits within three months to identify and eliminate dark patterns. Platforms are also required to submit self-declarations confirming compliance with the 2023 guidelines. By acting early to identify such risks, businesses can strengthen consumer trust and stay aligned with evolving regulatory expectations.
‘Dark patterns’ shall mean any practices or deceptive design patterns made using user interface (UI) or user experience (UX) interactions on any platform that is designed to mislead or trick users into doing something they originally did not intend/want to do by subverting or impairing the consumer autonomy, decision making, or choice, amounting to a misleading advertisement or unfair trade practice or violation of consumer rights.
At Grant Thornton Bharat, we recognise the importance of addressing dark patterns in today's digital environment. Our solution offerings comprise a thorough assessment and detection methodology, designed to help entities identify and analyse these deceptive practices.
We offer a comprehensive set of services and solutions that can help customers and entities identify and analyse dark patterns. Our in-house team of experts evaluates dark pattern compliance as per the guidelines.
