Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has announced that e-commerce platforms charging additional fees for cash-on-delivery (COD) transactions will face stringent action.
The move comes as part of the government’s effort to eliminate “dark patterns”—deceptive practices that mislead and exploit consumers.
Dark patterns in e-commerce often include tactics such as:
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Imposing hidden fees under headings like “Offer Handling Fee,” “Payment Handling Fee,” or “Protect Promise Fee.”
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Creating a false sense of urgency, such as claiming limited stock when ample inventory exists.
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Using confusing or hard-to-notice fee disclosures to pressure buyers into paying more.
Consumer Complaints Prompt Action
The crackdown was prompted by a viral social media post in which a customer was charged Rs 226 as extra COD fees.
Reacting to the post, Minister Joshi emphasized that platforms engaging in such practices will be thoroughly scrutinized.
“The Department of Consumer Affairs has received complaints against e-commerce platforms charging extra for Cash-on-Delivery, a practice classified as a dark pattern that misleads and exploits consumers. A detailed investigation has been initiated, and strict action will be taken against violators,” said Joshi.
Government Measures and Reporting
Consumers who encounter such unfair practices can report them through the Jagriti app.
The government has already engaged with several e-commerce platforms, and further legislative measures are under consideration.
The minister reiterated that the objective is to ensure transparency and fairness in India’s rapidly growing e-commerce ecosystem.
