Uber's 'Advance Tip' Feature and Dark Patterns in Digital Platforms

 Uber's 'advance tip' feature has come under scrutiny by India's Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) for allegedly engaging in manipulative design tactics, known as dark patterns, to encourage consumers to spend more money. This is not unique to Uber, as similar practices are observed in other ride-hailing platforms like Rapido and Namma Yatri. 

Government Investigation

 Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi has indicated that the government is investigating other platforms like Ola and Rapido for such practices. Dark patterns are defined as deceptive design strategies that mislead users and impair their autonomy. 

Features and Industry Practices

• The 'advance tip' feature encourages users to pay extra before a journey for faster service.
• Uber reportedly adopted this feature following similar trends by competitors in the industry.
• Platforms like Rapido and inDrive claim different operational models, emphasizing optional additional charges or negotiated fares.

Consumer Experiences and Government Actions

 A survey by LocalCircles in December 2024 highlighted that 80% of app taxi users encountered dark patterns like bait and switch or forced action, while 40% reported drip pricing experiences. 

• The government has identified 13 common dark patterns, including false urgency, basket sneaking, and subscription traps.
• Efforts are being made to regulate these practices to ensure a transparent digital marketplace.

Initiatives Against Dark Patterns

• The Department of Consumer Affairs launched apps like Jago Grahak Jago and Jagriti to empower CCPA in addressing dark patterns.
• An online ticket platform was recently served a notice for mandatory NGO donations, leading to interface changes allowing user choice.