9 Platforms Including Zepto And IndiGo Penalised For Misleading Consumers

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has taken action against nine digital platforms, including IndiGo, Zepto, FirstCry, Physics Wallah and SpiceJet, for allegedly using "dark patterns" that manipulate consumer choices through deceptive interface designs, the government informed the Rajya Sabha. The move is part of broader efforts by the consumer affairs department to strengthen safeguards against unfair practices in India's rapidly expanding digital marketplace. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs said the CCPA has penalised these platforms for deploying design techniques that may mislead users or influence their decisions in ways that do not serve their interests.

Dark patterns refer to deceptive user interface practices where online platforms use design strategies to push consumers towards certain actions, such as making purchases, subscribing to services or sharing personal information. The government told the Rajya Sabha that the consumer authority has been actively monitoring digital platforms and taking steps to address unfair online trade practices. The action against the nine companies follows growing concerns over the use of manipulative designs by e-commerce platforms, travel companies, education technology firms and other digital service providers.

The CCPA had issued an advisory in June 2025 asking e-commerce platforms to conduct self-audits to identify and remove dark patterns from their websites and applications. The advisory encouraged companies to review their user interfaces and ensure that consumers are provided with clear information and genuine choices while making online decisions. Dark patterns can include practices such as making it difficult for users to cancel subscriptions, hiding important information, creating false urgency, automatically adding products to shopping carts or presenting misleading options.

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Consumer rights advocates have argued that such techniques can affect informed decision-making and result in users spending more money or sharing data without fully understanding the consequences. The government's action reflects increasing scrutiny of digital businesses as online commerce and app-based services continue to expand in India. With millions of consumers relying on digital platforms for shopping, travel bookings, education services and financial transactions, regulators have emphasised the need for greater transparency and accountability.

Among the companies penalised, travel platforms and airlines such as IndiGo and SpiceJet have faced attention over online booking experiences, while e-commerce and education technology platforms have been examined for consumer interface practices. The CCPA has not only focused on traditional marketplaces but has also expanded its oversight to various sectors where digital interactions influence consumer behaviour. The consumer affairs department has highlighted the importance of fair digital practices and encouraged companies to adopt responsible design principles. Regulators believe that technology should make transactions easier and more transparent rather than create barriers or pressure users into decisions they may not otherwise make.

The action against these platforms comes as India continues to develop its regulatory framework for the digital economy. Authorities are increasingly focusing on protecting consumer rights while ensuring that businesses can continue to innovate within a fair and transparent environment. The CCPA's measures indicate that companies operating digital platforms may face greater scrutiny over how they design their websites and applications. As online services become a larger part of everyday life, regulators are expected to continue monitoring digital practices and taking action against businesses that engage in deceptive methods affecting consumer choice.

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