Flipkart, Zomato Among 26 Platforms Go “Dark Pattern Free” for Transparent Online Shopping

Online shoppers in India get a major relief as 26 top platforms, including Flipkart, Myntra, Zomato, and Swiggy, commit to being “dark pattern free.” Hidden charges, misleading offers, and manipulative tactics will now be eliminated, making digital shopping safer and more transparent.

26 Platforms Declare Themselves “Dark Pattern Free”

Millions of online shoppers often face hidden charges or confusing offers while shopping or ordering food. Known as online shopping dark patterns, these deceptive tactics mislead customers into spending more.

Now, 26 major Indian e-commerce and food delivery platforms have announced that they will completely stop using such tactics on their websites and apps. Platforms like Flipkart, Myntra, Zomato, and Swiggy submitted self-declaration letters to the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) confirming that they are officially “dark pattern free.”

Which Companies Are Included?

The 26 platforms come from different sectors:

• E-commerce: Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra

• Food delivery: Zomato, Swiggy

• Travel: Flight and hotel booking websites

• Others: Grocery, pharmacy, and fashion apps

These companies have also uploaded this declaration on their platforms for consumer verification. The Department of Consumer Affairs called this a historic step toward digital consumer safety.

What Are Dark Patterns?

Dark patterns are manipulative tricks used by websites to influence shoppers into taking actions they might not intend. The 2023 government guidelines banned 13 such patterns, including:

1. False Urgency: Misleading countdowns like “Only 2 items left!”

2. Basket Sneaking: Adding extra items, warranties, or donations to the cart without consent

3. Subscription Trap: Making it easy to subscribe but difficult to cancel services

4. Hidden Costs: Showing low prices initially but adding multiple charges during checkout

These tactics violate the Consumer Protection Act 2019 and often force customers to spend more than they intended.

Government Enforcement and Impact

In June 2025, the Department of Consumer Affairs issued an advisory requiring all e-commerce companies to audit and remove dark patterns within three months. The government warned that failing to comply would result in strict regulatory action.

The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) has also been raising awareness through social media and workshops, helping users identify these tactics. The successful initiative by these 26 companies is expected to set an example for other digital players to adopt self-regulation.

Upcoming ‘Country of Origin’ Filter

Alongside removing dark patterns, the government is planning another major change. Soon, e-commerce platforms may be required to provide a “Country of Origin” filter, allowing customers to see products based on the country they are made in, like “Made in India.”

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs proposed this on November 10, 2025. Once approved, the rule could take effect from 2026, giving local manufacturers a fair chance to compete with global brands.

Benefits to Consumers

With the removal of dark patterns, shoppers will enjoy a transparent and safe online experience:

• No misleading countdowns or false urgency messages

• No hidden charges or extra items sneaked into carts

• Clearer pricing and product information

The upcoming Country of Origin filter will further empower consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.

Conclusion

Following government directives, top companies like Flipkart, Zomato, and Swiggy have officially eliminated dark patterns from their platforms. Customers can now shop online without fear of hidden charges or deceptive tactics, marking a major step toward safer and more transparent digital commerce in India.