E-commerce companies charging extra: Hidden charges being added in final stage of order

Digital Desk

The government has initiated a formal investigation into extra charges being levied on cash-on-delivery orders on e-commerce platforms.

Charging additional fees on COD by e-commerce platforms is a kind of 'dark pattern'. The department has intensified its investigation following complaints received this year-Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi

Charging extra money on COD is an example of drip pricing. This is one of the 13 dark patterns under the Consumer Protection Act. In July, complaints emerged on social media against platforms like Zepto, where 'cash handling fees' were added at checkout.

The minister also said, "Platforms will undergo thorough investigation. Strict action will be ensured against those violating customer rights, to maintain transparency in e-commerce."

These Dark Patterns are More Trending

· Drip Pricing: Adding hidden charges at the final stage of order

· False Urgency: False messages like 'Only 1 item left'

· Subscription Traps: Memberships that are difficult to cancel

Adopting these methods is a violation of rules. This includes extra charges on COD. If found guilty in investigation, fines and other actions can be taken under the Consumer Protection Act.