Govt amends e-commerce rules to check dark patterns, fake sponsored listings

The government has amended the Consumer Protection (E-commerce) Rules, 2020 to check search results manipulation, dark patterns, sponsored listings and price transparency on online marketplaces and quick commerce platforms. The Consumer Protection (E-commerce) (Amendment) Rules, 2026 will come into force on January 1, 2027, the Department of Consumer Affairs said in a statement. Under the amended rules, e-commerce entities will be required to become convergence partners of the National Consumer