CCPA Probes E-Commerce Platforms for ‘Dark Pattern’ CoD Charges

The CCPA is probing e-commerce platforms for charging extra on Cash-on-Delivery (CoD) orders, a “dark pattern” flagged by Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi. Platforms like Amazon and Flipkart face scrutiny for hidden fees and unclear pricing. A LocalCircles survey found only 3% of platforms avoid such tactics. Meanwhile, Drishti IAS was fined ₹5 lakh for misleading UPSC ads, adding to ₹90.6 lakh in total penalties.