Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi has announced action against e-commerce platforms that impose additional charges for cash-on-delivery (COD), calling it a deceptive “dark pattern.” These extra fees often mislead and exploit customers who choose COD instead of online payments. A recent post on X went viral, where a customer shared being charged Rs 226 by Flipkart under vague labels like “offer handling fee,” “payment handling fee,” and “protect promise fee.” The user sarcastically questioned the need for these charges, likening them to potential future absurdities like a “scrolling app fee.”
Minister Joshi responded, stating that the Department of Consumer Affairs has received multiple complaints and has launched an investigation. Platforms found violating consumer rights will face strict action to ensure fair and transparent practices in the e-commerce space.
Dark patterns include tactics like false urgency, limited stock claims, and hiding fees until checkout. The government has previously urged companies to avoid such methods and is working on legislation to curb these exploitative practices and protect consumers.
