In a significant move to protect online consumers, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has directed all e-commerce platforms to conduct self-audits within three months to identify and eliminate "dark patterns"-deceptive design practices that mislead users into unintended actions. 

Dark patterns encompass tactics like false urgency alerts, hidden costs at checkout, subscription traps, and disguised advertisements that manipulate consumer decision-making. The CCPA's advisory urges platforms to examine their interfaces for such practices and submit self-declarations affirming compliance. 

This initiative follows the 2023 Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, which identified 13 specific manipulative practices. To monitor compliance, the Department of Consumer Affairs has established a Joint Working Group comprising representatives from relevant ministries, regulators, consumer organizations, and law universities. 

The CCPA has already issued notices to several e-commerce platforms found violating these guidelines. This crackdown aims to foster a fair digital ecosystem and rebuild consumer trust in online marketplaces.