SpiceJet dark patterns fine: CCPA imposes Rs 1 lakh penalty over pre-ticked consent
The consumer watchdog found that users were being automatically enrolled into the airline's SpiceClub Loyalty Programme through a checkbox that was pre-ticked by default. Customers were also deemed to have consented to receiving promotional messages without having to actively opt in.
The CCPA said the airline continued the practice even after being issued a notice, replacing one pre-ticked checkbox with another for promotional communication through SMS, WhatsApp and email.
The inquiry was led by CCPA Chief Commissioner Nidhi Khare and Commissioner Anupam Mishra.
The CCPA's order identified three forms of dark patterns on SpiceJet's platform.
The first was "forced action", under which users were automatically enrolled into the SpiceClub Loyalty Programme through a pre-ticked checkbox.
The authority also flagged "interface interference", where the company's preferred option was presented as the default choice to influence consumer decisions.
The third practice was described as a "trick question", involving confusing and negatively worded consent language that could mislead consumers.
The CCPA said such practices "impair consumer autonomy, undermine informed decision-making" and go against fair and transparent consumer engagement.
The authority said consent obtained through pre-ticked boxes, default settings or deceptive interface design does not qualify as valid consent under the law.
The CCPA held that SpiceJet's conduct violated provisions of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, relating to unfair trade practices, unfair contract terms and misleading representations.
It also found the airline in breach of Rule 4(9) of the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020, which requires consumer consent to be obtained through explicit and affirmative action.
The CCPA also cited the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023.SPICEJET CALLS IT TECHNICAL ERROR
During the proceedings, SpiceJet representatives told the authority that the issue was the result of a technical error.
The airline has since been directed to submit an undertaking confirming that corrective measures have been implemented and will remain in place permanently.
The CCPA said it remained committed to protecting consumer rights and ensuring that digital platforms conduct business in a "fair, transparent and consumer-centric manner".- EndsWith inputs from PTIPublished By: Sonali VermaPublished On: Jul 17, 2026 19:59 IST
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