New Delhi: Online shoppers in India will get stronger consumer protection from January 1, 2027, as tighter e-commerce rules target misleading discounts, hidden charges, paid product promotions and deceptive sales practices.
The changes will require online platforms to provide clearer information before customers make purchases and strengthen accountability in digital commerce.
Discounts To Become Transparent
E-commerce companies offering discounts will have to display both the current and previous prices.
The previous price will be determined using the product’s lowest price during the preceding 30 days. The measure aims to prevent sellers from increasing prices before advertising seemingly steep discounts.
Products promoted through payments will also have to be clearly identified as advertisements or sponsored listings.
More Details Before Purchase
Platforms will need to disclose essential information including expiry or best-before dates, return and refund policies, warranties, delivery conditions and payment details.
For imported products, customers must also be informed about the country of origin and the identity of the importer.
Companies will face restrictions on charging separate fees for services unrelated to their primary offering. Charges associated with loyalty and membership programmes will, however, remain exempt.
Customer data cannot be used for specified purposes without clear and explicit consent.
Dark Patterns Under Watch
Online practices designed to confuse, pressure or manipulate customers into making purchases, commonly known as dark patterns, will face closer scrutiny.
Companies must comply with the government’s 2023 dark-pattern guidelines.
Platforms will also be required to conduct annual self-audits and display compliance certificates confirming adherence to the prescribed standards.
Complaint Rules Strengthened
Consumers filing complaints must receive copies of their complaints, providing them with formal records of their grievances.
E-commerce companies will also be required to join the National Consumer Helpline.
The changes come amid rising consumer complaints. The helpline received 17,71,622 complaints in 2025, including 5,11,196 linked to online shopping.
India introduced its existing e-commerce rules in 2020. The government believes rapid changes in technology and digital commerce require stronger protections for consumers shopping online.
