CCPA intensifies dark-pattern crackdown, fines Zepto ₹7 lakh

India’s consumer regulator is escalating action against deceptive online practices. Zepto was fined ₹7 lakh over drip pricing and basket sneaking, while BookMyShow was ordered to remove a pre-selected charity contribution; Physics Wallah, FirstCry and PharmaEasy have also faced penalties.

— Filed Thu, 6 Aug, 2026, 14:46 IST · Source Outlook Business · Updated

India’s CCPA penalised digital platforms over dark patterns. Zepto received a ₹7 lakh fine for drip pricing and basket sneaking, while BookMyShow was ordered to remove a pre-selected BookASmile contribution. Enforcement is expanding across online consumer platforms.

Why this matters

The fine follows a related CCPA crackdown on nine platforms for dark patterns. It also arrives as Zepto defers its IPO and pursues a ₹1,000 crore-plus pre-IPO raise.

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