New Delhi, Oct. 5 -- The Department of Consumer Affairs has received several complaints against e-commerce platforms for charging extra fees under various names, a practice that the government has classified as a "dark pattern" that misleads and exploits consumers.

Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, shared the information on X, saying that the ministry has started a detailed investigation into the matter.

He said, "The Department of Consumer Affairs has received complaints against e-commerce platforms charging extra for Cash-on-Delivery, a practice classified as a dark pattern that misleads and exploits consumers. A detailed investigation has been initiated and...