ASCI Issues New Guidelines to Curb Deceptive Online Design Tactics

The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has released new guidelines for Online Deceptive Design Patterns in Advertising to empower businesses, designers, and stakeholders to create a more user-friendly and transparent experience. As marketing strategies continue to become more personalized and sophisticated, these guidelines will help to combat misleading or predatory practices on digital platforms that impair consumer choice. Dark Patterns are designed to steer consumers towards choices that favor the advertiser’s interests and compromise the consumer’s informed decision-making. The ASCI’s new guidelines have addressed areas such as drip pricing, bait and switch, false urgency, and disguised advertisements, requiring advertisers to disclose clearly if content is sponsored and regulated prices, stock levels, and representation. These guidelines protect consumers by ensuring transparency and fairness in online advertising. By clarifying advertising formats, followers can discern between genuine content and advertisements, allowing them to make informed decisions. These new guidelines will begin to apply from September 1st, giving online platforms time to adjust their systems and interfaces. These guidelines will impact influencers, content creators, and brands who will need to adjust their advertising and marketing plans accordingly. Overall the ASCI’s guidelines are a positive step towards making the online advertising landscape more transparent and fair while leveling the playing field for brands who are not engaging in deceptive advertising practices.