CONSUMER PROTECTION AGAINST UNFAIR AND EXPLOITATIVE PRACTICES IN THE DIGITAL AGE

AUTHOR – R. RAJA* & P S RADHA JAYASHEELA**

* STUDENT AT VELS INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ADVANCED STUDIES (VISTAS)

** ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT SCHOOL OF LAW, VELS INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND ADVANCED STUDIES (VISTAS)

BEST CITATION – R. RAJA & P S RADHA JAYASHEELA, CONSUMER PROTECTION AGAINST UNFAIR AND EXPLOITATIVE PRACTICES IN THE DIGITAL AGE, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (7) OF 2026, PG. 484-486, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

Abstract

This study examines the evolving nature of consumer exploitation in both traditional and digital marketplaces. With the rise of e-commerce and AI-driven trade, the traditional doctrine of caveat emptor has become inadequate. The research analyzes unfair trade practices such as misleading advertisements, predatory lending, and digital “dark patterns.” Through doctrinal and comparative analysis of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, along with EU and US frameworks, the study identifies enforcement gaps and challenges such as digital illiteracy and procedural delays. It concludes with policy recommendations aimed at strengthening regulatory mechanisms and promoting a consumer-centric digital economy.