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A report by Datum Intelligence reveals that Indian online shoppers lose an estimated Rs 25,000 to Rs 28,000 crore annually due to deceptive interface designs known as dark patterns. These include hidden charges, forced add-ons, drip pricing, false urgency, and subscription traps, affecting 88% of the 304 million online buyers. The study, based on a 2026 survey of 2,590 consumers across 50 cities, found increased prevalence of such practices despite regulatory efforts. Amazon was identified as the most trusted platform, while Flipkart faced notable distrust.
We measured how 4 outlets covered this story. Coverage leans balanced overall (Left 8%, Centre 88%, Right 4%). Overall sentiment is neutral (39/100). Lens Score 40/100 — moderate-to-low public interest.
Outlets analysed (first-hand measurement by TBN's Bias Engine):
The articles primarily present a consumer protection perspective, focusing on the impact of deceptive digital practices without partisan framing. They highlight regulatory challenges but do not attribute blame to specific political entities. The coverage includes industry trust rankings, reflecting market dynamics rather than political viewpoints, maintaining a neutral stance overall.
The tone across the articles is largely critical of deceptive online practices, emphasizing financial losses and consumer mistrust. However, the sentiment remains factual and measured, acknowledging ongoing regulatory efforts and consumer preferences without sensationalism. The inclusion of trusted platforms provides a balanced view amid concerns.
Each source's own headline, political lean, and sentiment — so you can see framing differences at a glance.
| Source | Their headline | Bias | Sentiment |
|---|---|---|---|
| businessstandard | Dark patterns cost Indian online shoppers up to 28,000 cr a year: Study | Center | Neutral |
| businessstandard | Indian online buyers lose up to 28,000 cr yearly to dark patterns: Report | Center | Neutral |
| economictimes | Indian online buyers losing up to Rs 28,000 crore annually to dark patterns, hidden charges: Report | Center |
news18 broke this story on 9 Jun, 10:28 am. Other outlets followed.
Story is receiving appropriate media attention relative to public interest.
Institutions and figures named across source coverage.
| Neutral |
| news18 | 88 Of Indian Online Shoppers Lose Money To Dark Patterns, Says Report | Center | Neutral |
