Government Initiates Hackathon to Combat Dark Patterns on E-Commerce Platforms
In a ground breaking move, the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has launched the Dark Patterns Buster Hackathon 2023 in collaboration with IIT-BHU to address the growing concern of dark patterns on e-commerce websites. Dark patterns, deceptive design practices aimed at misleading users, have prompted the government to invite hackers to develop innovative solutions that protect consumers from unfair trade practices.
Defining Dark Patterns:
Dark patterns are deceptive design patterns within user interfaces and user experiences that manipulate or trick users into taking actions they did not originally intend. Although there is currently no specific law governing the use of dark patterns, the DoCA considers them a contributor to unfair trade practices and a potential violation of consumer rights.
The Hackathon Details:
The Dark Patterns Buster Hackathon, set to conclude on February 17, 2024, involves four levels of competition. Participants are tasked with creating design prototypes or innovative applications that can identify the use of dark patterns on e-commerce websites. The winning solutions are expected to employ artificial intelligence for accurate pattern detection, ensuring compatibility across various browsers and user-friendly interfaces.
Recognition and Rewards:
India stands out as the first country to take concrete steps in cracking down on dark patterns, as emphasised. Five winning teams from the hackathon will be awarded cash prizes of up to Rs 10 lakh each.
Previous Guidelines and Industry Response:
In September, the DoCA sought public comments on draft guidelines for the prevention and regulation of dark patterns. Ten patterns, including false urgency and basket sneaking, were identified. Industry stakeholders responded positively to these guidelines, prompting their subsequent update with three additional dark patterns: “trick question,” “Saas billing,” and “rogue malwares.”
Newly Identified Dark Patterns:
The three newly identified dark patterns include “trick question,” which involves deliberately using confusing or vague language to misguide users; “Saas billing,” a recurring payment process in software as a service business models; and “rogue malwares,” a pattern using ransomware or scareware to mislead users into paying for a fake malware removal tool that installs malware on their computers.
The Dark Patterns Buster Hackathon represents a significant step by the Indian government to address the deceptive practices on e-commerce platforms. By harnessing the expertise of hackers and leveraging artificial intelligence, India aims to lead the way in curbing dark patterns and promoting a fair and transparent online consumer experience.
