Zepto fined for tricking users with hidden fees and sneaky charges
Zepto, the quick delivery app, just got hit with a ₹7 lakh fine for using "dark patterns"—basically, design tricks that made users pay more than they expected.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority found Zepto was adding hidden fees at checkout (called drip pricing) and automatically including paid services without clear consent (basket sneaking), which goes against consumer protection laws.
What actually happened—and what's changed?
A test in January showed Zepto's Colossal Kajal price quietly jumped from ₹170 to ₹177.44 because of these extra charges.
After backlash, CEO Aadit Palicha admitted these tactics were "a mistake" and said they've been removed—in response to negative feedback from users and social media.
Now, Zepto's app auto-applies free delivery and clearly shows all fees upfront.
Still, a recent survey found almost all e-commerce apps are using similar tricks, so it's something to watch out for when you shop online.