CCPA Fines Rapido ₹10 Lakh Over Dark Patterns and Tipping
The CCPA has fined Rapido ₹10 lakh over alleged dark patterns, including a pre-ride tipping mechanism that the regulator classified as confirm shaming.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has imposed a ₹10 lakh penalty on Rapido’s parent company over alleged use of deceptive digital practices, including dark patterns designed to influence consumer choices.
The consumer regulator identified a pre-ride tipping mechanism in the Rapido app that prompted users to add an extra ₹10 to ₹30, reportedly suggesting that drivers were declining standard fares. The CCPA classified the practice as “confirm shaming”, where users may feel pressured or uncomfortable about choosing not to make an additional payment.
According to the regulator, the interface could influence commuters into paying more than the fare initially determined for their ride. The action forms part of efforts to address manipulative design practices on digital platforms and strengthen consumer protection.
Dark patterns refer to user-interface techniques that can steer people toward decisions they may not otherwise make, such as making optional payments or services appear necessary. The CCPA has been examining such practices across digital services as online transactions become increasingly common.
The penalty against Rapido highlights growing regulatory scrutiny of how ride-hailing platforms present fares, optional payments and other choices to consumers.
