Online Shopping and Dark Patterns: What the 2026 E-Commerce Rules Change: An Illustrative Scenario

The example below is a constructed hypothetical, built to show how these rules apply in practice. It does not describe any real person or matter.

The illustrative scenario

The question

This raises an obvious question:

How the general rule applies

The Dark Patterns Guidelines 2023 remain in force. In June 2025, the Central Consumer Protection Authority advised e-commerce platforms to self-audit for dark patterns within 3 months.

The Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) (Amendment) Rules 2026 were notified on 9 Sep 2026 and take effect on 1 Jan 2027. They require that any claimed 'prior price' reflect the lowest price in the preceding 30 days, that sponsored listings be labelled, that search results not be manipulated, and that invoices show the seller's name; they also make convergence with the National Consumer Helpline mandatory.

The Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) (Amendment) Rules 2026 were notified on 9 September 2026 but take effect from 1 January 2027.

What often gets missed in situations like this

• Assuming the 2026 e-commerce rules are already in force — they take effect from 1 January 2027, not from the date of notification.
• Not keeping a screenshot of a discount or 'limited time' claim at the time of purchase, which can be useful evidence either way.

As noted above, this scenario is a constructed illustration used to explain the general rule — it does not describe a real client, case, or outcome.

For the general rules, see Online Shopping and Dark Patterns: What the 2026 E-Commerce Rules Change and Which Consumer Commission Should You File In?.

If you would like this looked at against your own facts, a consultation is a reasonable next step.

This overview is general information, not legal advice. Procedures and local practice can differ, so a specific review of your matter is advisable before acting.