'Dark pattern': Ola fined Rs 10 lakh for misleading pre-ride tip feature
The Central Consumer Protection Authority has fined Ola 10 lakh rupees for using 'dark patterns' in its app, specifically a pre-ride tipping feature that misled users. The regulator found that the feature falsely suggested tips would improve ride allocation speed.
Why it matters
This ruling sets a precedent for how ride-hailing platforms must handle user interface design and consumer transparency in India.
NEW DELHI: The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) on Friday imposed a fine of Rs 10 lakh on ride-hailing platform Ola over its "pre-ride tip" feature, terming the practice misleading.The authority directed ANI Technologies Private Limited, which operates Ola, to immediately stop seeking additional payments before confirming rides, calling the practice an unfair trade practice and a dark pattern.Dark patterns are deceptive designs in apps and websites that push people into making choices they didn't intend to make, like hidden fees or hard-to-cancel subscriptions.The CCPA found that messages displayed on the app, including "Adding a tip might help increase the chances of getting a ride faster" and "Tip now to boost the chances of getting a ride sooner", gave users the impression that offering a tip could improve their chances of getting a ride.However, Ola's own booking data for June 1-15, 2026, showed otherwise.
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