How ‘Jago Grahak,’ ‘Jagriti’ Apps Help You Tackle Dark Patterns
On the occasion of National Consumers Day, a significant stride was made in consumer protection with the launch of three groundbreaking tools by the Department of Consumer Affairs. These include the ‘Jago Grahak Jago App,’ ‘Jagriti App,’ and ‘Jagriti Dashboard.’ Developed by brilliant minds at IIT-BHU under the National Supercomputing Mission, these tools leverage the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to shine a spotlight on dark patterns lurking on the internet.
These innovative tools are powered by the Airawat AI supercomputer, known for its high-performance computing capabilities, specifically catering to complex analytics tasks. The deployment of such advanced technology underscores the commitment to safeguarding consumer interests in an increasingly digital marketplace.
‘Jago Grahak Jago App’: Your First Line of Defense
The ‘Jago Grahak Jago App’ serves as a digital guardian, vigilantly watching over users’ online activities. It provides timely alerts about suspicious or unsafe URLs while browsing, effectively acting as a preliminary filter against online threats associated with dark patterns. This proactive measure helps users avoid entrapment in digital manipulations that could lead to unfavorable transactions or privacy invasions.
‘Jagriti App’: Empowering Consumers to Report
The ‘Jagriti App’ empowers consumers to take a direct stand against dark patterns. Through this app, users can report suspected devious design tactics they encounter. Such complaints are escalated to the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) for timely redressal. This mechanism not only creates a feedback loop for regulatory bodies but also instills a sense of agency among consumers, encouraging them to actively participate in the oversight of digital fairness.
‘Jagriti Dashboard’: A Real-Time Monitoring Marvel
In complement to the apps, the ‘Jagriti Dashboard’ functions as a real-time surveillance system, identifying deceptive design practices across e-commerce platforms. This dashboard compiles actionable reports for the CCPA, facilitating targeted interventions aimed at curbing malicious practices. By offering a panoramic view of the online landscape, this tool enables a more strategic approach to consumer protection.
Dark Patterns Under the Scanner
In a pioneering move in 2023, the CCPA unveiled the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns. These guidelines identified 13 particularly pernicious manipulative design patterns that often manipulate consumer decisions and behavior. Among these are tactics like ‘False Urgency,’ which pressures consumers into hurried purchases, ‘Basket Sneaking,’ where additional items are quietly added to shopping carts, ‘Confirm Shaming,’ that attempts to guilt users into making decisions, and ‘Subscription Traps,’ binding consumers into ongoing subscriptions with tricky opt-out procedures.
These deceptive designs have garnered increased scrutiny, especially after high-profile cases involving prominent companies, such as InterGlobe Aviation Ltd, also known as IndiGo Airlines, and the renowned online ticketing platform, BookMyShow. Such cases have highlighted the need for rigorous oversight and consumer protection measures against dark patterns.
A New Era of Consumer Protection
The introduction of these tools marks a significant advancement in the consumer protection landscape. By utilizing cutting-edge technology, the Department of Consumer Affairs is transcending traditional boundaries to combat digital deceit. These tools not only aim to protect consumers but also urge businesses to maintain transparency and fairness in their dealings, setting a new standard for ethical digital interactions.
Ultimately, the ‘Jago Grahak,’ ‘Jagriti’ suite of tools, and the accompanying dashboard not only fortify consumer confidence but also lead the charge towards a more equitable digital marketplace. With consumers empowered and armed with knowledge, the future of e-commerce and online interactions looks poised for greater integrity and fairness, paving the way for a safer, more transparent online world for all.
