The Centre has initiated the ‘Dark Patterns Buster Hackathon 2023,’ aimed at creating innovative app or software-based solutions to identify and combat dark patterns on e-commerce platforms. The hackathon is organized by the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU).
Objective
The primary objective of this hackathon is to develop solutions that protect consumers from various unfair trade practices, especially those related to dark patterns on e-commerce websites.
Competition Structure
The hackathon is divided into four rounds, where participating teams will compete for rewards. The first prize is set at Rs 1 lakh, with second, third, fourth, and fifth prizes offering Rs 5 lakh, Rs 3 lakh, Rs 2 lakh, and Rs 1 lakh, respectively. The prize distribution ceremony will take place on World Consumer Rights Day.
Launch Event
The hackathon was officially launched by Nidhi Khare, Special Secretary at the Department of Consumer Affairs, in the presence of Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh.
This initiative aims to empower consumers by providing them with tools and software solutions to identify and combat dark patterns, ensuring a fair and transparent e-commerce environment.
