Dark Patterns on E-commerce Platforms

Dark Patterns on E-commerce are the focus of the Centre’s new ‘Dark Patterns Buster Hackathon 2023,’ aimed at designing an app or software solution to detect these practices.

About Dark Patterns Buster Hackathon 2023:

• The hackathon’s objective is to design an innovative app or software-based solution that can safeguard consumers from all forms of unfair trade practices.
• It is organized by the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) in partnership with IIT-(BHU).
• The hackathon is divided into four stages:
  • Registration of participant teams and host institutes.
  • Intra Institute DPBH 2023 organization.
  • Inter Institute DPBH 2023 organization.
  • Prize distribution on World Consumer Rights Day.
• The winners will receive the following prizes:
  • 1st prize: INR 10 lakhs
  • 2nd prize: INR 5 lakhs
  • 3rd prize: INR 3 lakhs
  • 4th prize: INR 2 lakhs
  • 5th prize: INR 1 lakh

What are Dark Patterns?

• Dark patterns are deceptive user interfaces that trick users into doing things they might not want to do.
• They can be found on various online platforms, including e-commerce sites.
• Examples: Rogue malwares, trick wording, and SaaS billing.

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