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Nashik Cyber Fraud: Fake E-Challan App Targets Bank & WhatsApp Users Cyber fraud in Nashik is on the rise. Recently, 56 cases of online fraud have been reported where people lost access to their bank accounts and WhatsApp due to a malicious application. The scam is linked to a fake E-Challan app being shared through WhatsApp messages. This incident highlights the growing threat of banking frauds, WhatsApp scams, and fake apps in India and why every digital user must stay alert. What Is the Fake E-Challan App Scam in Nashik? The fraud begins when victims receive a WhatsApp message with a link to download an app posing as an E-Challan app. Believing it to be official, many install it only to unknowingly give access to malware. Once installed, the malware: Steals banking details (login IDs, PINs, OTPs). Gains control of WhatsApp accounts. Compromises sensitive phone data. Authorities have confirmed that 56 people in Nashik have already fallen prey to this fake app  Why This Cyber Fraud Is Dangerous Cyber experts warn that the fake E-Challan app is particularly harmful because: It imitates official apps – using government-like branding. It steals banking credentials – intercepting OTPs and passwords. It hijacks WhatsApp – targeting family and friends of the victim. It spreads quickly – hacked WhatsApp accounts forward the link to others. How to Protect Yourself from Fake Apps To safeguard against such cyber fraud in Nashik and across India: Download apps only from trusted sources like Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Avoid unknown links shared via WhatsApp, SMS, or email. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on WhatsApp and banking apps. Review app permissions before installation. Stay informed with alerts from the National Cyber Crime Portal. What To Do If You Installed the Fake App If you or someone you know has installed the fake E-Challan app: Uninstall it immediately. Run a security scan with a trusted antivirus. Change your banking, email, and WhatsApp passwords. Enable 2FA across all important accounts. Report the case at the National Cyber Crime Portal or dial 1930 (India’s Cyber Helpline Number). Inform your bank to secure your account. Final Thoughts The fake E-Challan app cyber fraud in Nashik is a serious wake-up call. With 56 victims already affected, cybercrime is no longer a distant threat  it’s happening in our neighborhoods. By downloading apps only from official sources, enabling security measures, and spreading awareness, you can protect yourself and help others avoid banking frauds and WhatsApp scams in India. Recent Posts October 6, 2025 Nashik Cyber Fraud: Fake E-Challan App Targets Bank & WhatsApp Users September 23, 2025 CERT-In Mandates Annual Cybersecurity Audits for MSMEs in India September 2, 2025 Top 5 Cloud Security Risks in 2025: How to Protect Your Business in the Cloud August 11, 2025 SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance by Two Months Know It All August 7, 2025 What Is .bank.in Domain? RBI’s New Mandate Explained July 14, 2025 Dark Pattern Solutions For Ethical UI/UX Know It All July 8, 2025 Dark Pattern Alert to Solution For New Ethical UX July 7, 2025 Dark Patterns Identify and Prevent New Guide for India July 1, 2025 Cybersecurity Compliance Made Easy Frameworks Explained Know It All June 26, 2025 Why Hackers Target New Schools and How to Protect Categories Cyber Security Security Operations Center Cloud Security Case Study Technology Trends FAQ 1. How can I report cyber fraud in India? You can report incidents on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal or call 1930 Cyber Helpline. 2. How do I check if an E-Challan app is fake? A genuine app will always be on Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Never install apps from links shared via WhatsApp or SMS. 3. What should I do if my WhatsApp is hacked? Log out of all devices, reset your password, enable two-factor authentication, and alert your contacts about the compromise. Tell Us Your Opinion We value your perspective! Share your thoughts, feedback, or questions below. Your opinion matters and helps create a richer, more engaging conversation. Let’s connect and hear what you think about this post!

CERT-In Mandates Annual Cybersecurity Audits for MSMEs in India Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) form the backbone of India’s economy — but they’re also becoming prime targets for cyberattacks. Recognising this vulnerability, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a crucial directive: from September 1, 2025, all MSMEs must undergo an annual cybersecurity audit conducted by empanelled auditors. This regulation ensures that even the smallest organisations are aligned with national cybersecurity standards — transforming digital security from a choice to a necessity. Why This Audit Mandate Matters According to CERT-In, India saw a 30% year-on-year increase in cyber incidents involving small and medium businesses. Attackers often exploit weaker defences in smaller firms to breach larger partners through the supply chain. The annual audit aims to strengthen every link making India’s entire digital economy more secure. Key Requirements for MSMEs Requirement What It Means for You Annual audit by CERT-In empanelled auditor Each MSME must hire an authorised auditor to assess its security posture every year. Cyber Defence Framework compliance Audits will be based on 15 cyber control elements covering IT assets, patching, network security, and data protection. 6-hour incident reporting window Cyber incidents must be reported to CERT-In within six hours of detection. Log retention requirement Maintain system logs for a minimum of 180 days for regulatory and investigative purposes. How MSMEs Can Prepare for the Audit Perform a gap assessment — Identify areas that fall short of baseline controls. Implement basic defences — Use firewalls, endpoint protection, and encrypted backups. Train your employees — Human error remains the top cause of breaches. Retain security documentation — Maintain policies, logs, and access control records. Engage certified auditors early — Early consultation helps streamline readiness and save costs. Not Just Compliance — A Competitive Advantage While many MSMEs view audits as an obligation, forward-looking organisations see them as an opportunity. Being CERT-In compliant builds trust with customers, investors, and partners opening new doors to enterprise collaborations and government projects. By investing in compliance now, you’re not only reducing risk but also future-proofing your digital credibility. Impact at a Glance Business Area Benefit of Compliance Client Trust Enhances reputation and data-handling confidence Legal Protection Reduces penalties and legal risks under IT Act Section 70B Supply Chain Meets partner and vendor cybersecurity requirements Operational Stability Minimises downtime from malware or ransomware incidents Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. Who needs to comply with the CERT-In audit? All MSMEs handling digital data or IT assets must undergo annual audits starting September 2025. 2. What if a business skips the audit? Non-compliance can lead to penalties, suspension of IT privileges, and exclusion from government tenders. 3. How can we prepare without major IT investment? Begin with a gap analysis, employee training, and documentation Lumiverse Solutions provides affordable compliance packages for MSMEs. 4. Can one audit cover multiple branches? Yes, but each branch must maintain separate security documentation and proof of control implementation. 5. Does CERT-In provide tools or templates? Yes, CERT-In and MeitY will release standard checklists and reporting templates for MSMEs to simplify readiness. Prepare Your MSME for CERT-In Audit Compliance Work with Lumiverse Solutions to make cybersecurity compliance effortless. From documentation to implementation we ensure your business is certified, compliant, and confident. Book a Free Audit Consultation Recent Posts November 1, 2025 Top 10 VAPT Best Practices for 2025: What Organisations Should Be Doing Now October 29, 2025 How to Get STQC GIGW 3.0 Certification | Complete Audit & Compliance Process Explained October 22, 2025 RBI’s Compliance Crackdown: What Co-op Banks Can Learn from Recent Penalties October 6, 2025 Nashik Cyber Fraud: Fake E-Challan App Targets Bank & WhatsApp Users September 23, 2025 CERT-In Mandates Annual Cybersecurity Audits for MSMEs in India September 2, 2025 Top 5 Cloud Security Risks in 2025: How to Protect Your Business in the Cloud August 11, 2025 SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance by Two Months Know It All August 7, 2025 What Is .bank.in Domain? RBI’s New Mandate Explained July 14, 2025 Dark Pattern Solutions For Ethical UI/UX Know It All July 8, 2025 Dark Pattern Guidelines 2023: What Every Indian Business Must Know Categories Cyber Security Security Operations Center Cloud Security Case Study Technology Trends SOC 2 Compliance Audit Ensure your business meets security, privacy, and compliance standards with our SOC 2 Compliance Audit services. Protect data, build trust, and stay secure. Buy our services today! Buy Now Important Subscribe to our Research Enter your email address to subscribe to Lumiverse Research and receive notifications of new posts by email. Tell Us Your Opinion We value your perspective! Share your thoughts, feedback, or questions below. Your opinion matters and helps create a richer, more engaging conversation. Let’s connect and hear what you think about this post!

Top 5 Cloud Security Risks in 2025: How to Protect Your Business in the Cloud INTRODUCTION Cloud computing has become the backbone of modern businesses in 2025. From storing sensitive customer data to running mission-critical applications, organizations of all sizes now rely heavily on cloud platforms. While this shift delivers flexibility and scalability, it also opens the door to serious cloud security risks. With AI-powered cyberattacks growing more advanced, even a single weak password, misconfigured setting, or insider mistake can compromise your entire infrastructure. To stay secure, businesses must understand the top cloud security threats in 2025 and adopt proactive defense strategies. 1. Data Breaches and Unauthorized Access Still the number one threat. If attackers get into your cloud environment, sensitive data like customer records, financial details, or trade secrets can be stolen in minutes. With AI-powered brute force tools, hackers are cracking weak or reused passwords faster than ever. Real-world note: In 2024, several global companies saw breaches traced back to compromised cloud credentials. The lesson? Access control can’t be an afterthought. Why it matters: Financial losses are just the tip of the iceberg a breach can destroy customer trust overnight.Protect yourself: Use multi-factor authentication (MFA), enforce strong password policies, and encrypt sensitive data at rest and in transit. 2.Misconfigured Cloud Settings The cloud is powerful, but it’s also complex. One wrong setting and suddenly your storage bucket is public for the whole internet to see. Gartner predicts that by 2025, nearly all cloud security failures will be customer-side misconfigurations not provider errors. Think about it: That one “open to public” checkbox in a hurry could expose millions of records. Why it matters: A single oversight can leave your data wide open, even if your provider is secure.Protect yourself: Use automated configuration scanning, invest in Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) tools, and schedule regular security audits. 3. Insider Threats Cybercriminals outside your company aren’t the only danger. Employees whether careless or malicious pose a serious risk. Someone downloading sensitive files to a personal device or clicking a phishing link can cause just as much harm as an external hacker. And with hybrid work here to stay, monitoring insider behavior is more difficult. Why it matters: Insiders don’t need to break in  they already have access.Protect yourself: Restrict permissions with role-based access, monitor unusual activity, and provide ongoing employee security training. 4. Ransomware and Cloud-Based Malware Ransomware has leveled up. It’s not just about encrypting your files anymore attackers now steal your data first and then threaten to leak it (double extortion). With AI-generated malware, attacks are harder to detect and more personalized. Example: One mid-sized business last year paid millions in ransom not just to recover files but to stop attackers from publishing sensitive customer data. Why it matters: A ransomware incident can paralyze your operations, hurt your reputation, and cost millions.Protect yourself: Keep multiple backups (including offline copies), deploy advanced detection systems, and regularly test your disaster recovery plan. 5. Compliance and Regulations Data privacy laws are multiplying worldwide. Whether it’s GDPR in Europe, HIPAA in the U.S., or India’s new DPDP Act, compliance is now a central part of cloud security. If you use multiple providers, keeping track of different requirements is even harder. Why it matters: Non-compliance doesn’t just mean fines it can harm your credibility with customers and partners.Protect yourself: Choose providers with certifications like ISO 27001 or SOC 2, maintain audit trails, and use tools that automate compliance checks. Conclusion The cloud is growing fast and so are the threats. Businesses in 2025 can’t afford to treat cloud security as just another IT task. It’s a business survival strategy. The best approach? Layer your defenses: Strong identity and access management Misconfiguration monitoring Insider threat detection Ransomware preparedness Compliance automation  Start small if you need to. Run a cloud security audit this quarter, train your staff, or review your backup plan. Every step strengthens your defenses. The companies that treat cloud security as a priority today will be the ones thriving tomorrow. Recent Posts September 2, 2025 Top 5 Cloud Security Risks in 2025: How to Protect Your Business in the Cloud August 11, 2025 SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance by Two Months Know It All August 7, 2025 What Is .bank.in Domain? RBI’s New Mandate Explained July 14, 2025 Dark Pattern Solutions For Ethical UI/UX Know It All July 8, 2025 Dark Pattern Alert to Solution For New Ethical UX July 7, 2025 Dark Patterns Identify and Prevent New Guide for India July 1, 2025 Cybersecurity Compliance Made Easy Frameworks Explained Know It All June 26, 2025 Why Hackers Target New Schools and How to Protect June 23, 2025 From Audit to Action Full-Stack New Cybersecurity Services Explained June 20, 2025 Financial New Fraud In The Digital Age In India Categories Cyber Security Security Operations Center Cloud Security Case Study Technology Trends SOC 2 Compliance Audit Ensure your business meets security, privacy, and compliance standards with our SOC 2 Compliance Audit services. Protect data, build trust, and stay secure. Buy our services today! Buy Now Important Subscribe to our Research Enter your email address to subscribe to Lumiverse Research and receive notifications of new posts by email. FAQ What are the top cloud security risks in 2025?  The biggest risks include data breaches, misconfigurations, insider threats, ransomware, and compliance challenges. Why do misconfigurations cause so many breaches? Because they often happen by accident. A single unchecked box can leave sensitive data exposed to the internet. How can I protect my business from ransomware in the cloud?  Keep backups in multiple locations, invest in advanced detection tools, and regularly test your incident response plan. What’s the role of compliance in cloud security?  Compliance ensures your business meets legal data protection standards. Non-compliance can mean fines and reputational damage. Are insider threats really that serious? Yes, insiders already have access, so their mistakes (or malicious actions) can be just as damaging as an external breach. What’s the best way to secure cloud infrastructure in 2025?  Take

SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance by Two Months Know It All INTRODUCTION SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance timeline by two months, providing regulated entities (REs) with more time to put into place and strengthen their cybersecurity and cyber resilience framework. The action, as announced by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), is crucial for stockbrokers, depositories, mutual funds, and other market intermediaries who are going the extra step to meet stringent security standards. This extension is not just a relief—it’s also a reminder. In today’s digital-first financial world, cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. A well-defined cybersecurity compliance strategy is not optional; it’s essential. By extending the deadline, SEBI is providing breathing space to the industry, but it’s also sending a strong message: cybersecurity is a priority, and compliance is non-negotiable. Background: Understanding SEBI’s Cybersecurity Framework SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance notice is among the efforts of a broader regulatory drive towards cybersecurity.  The framework introduces tough policies for: Infrastructure Security – All trading and investment infrastructure will be secured. Incident Response – Early detection, reporting, and remediation of cyber incidents. Data Protection – Securing investor data from breaches and leaks. Continuous Monitoring – 24/7 surveillance to detect vulnerabilities. Timeline of SEBI’s Cybersecurity Compliance Deadlines Initial Framework Release – SEBI first issued cybersecurity guidelines in 2015, evolving them over time. Mandatory Implementation Phase – Extended to various market participants in different phases. Original 2025 Deadline – Most companies were to comply by June 30, 2025. Extension Notice – SEBI Now Exts Cybersecurity Compliance deadline to August 31, 2025. This two-month extension may not be a great deal, but in the IT realm of infrastructure renewal and security scans, every week counts. Why SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance Its reason for doing so is because of the following: Industry Readiness Gaps – The majority of entities informed that full implementation was still in progress. Complexity of Requirements – The framework involves multiple upgrades, audits, and employee training. Supply Chain Delays – Security hardware and software procurement faced delays. Integration Challenges – Aligning legacy systems with modern security tools takes time. SEBI’s Practical Approach – The regulator prefers enabling genuine compliance over forced, rushed adoption. By extending the SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance deadline, the regulator ensures that the transition is both smooth and effective. Who Must Comply? The SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance notice applies to all regulated entities, including: Stock Exchanges Depositories Clearing Corporations Stockbrokers Mutual Funds and Asset Management Companies (AMCs) Portfolio Managers Investment Advisors Research Analysts No sector participant dealing with sensitive investor data is exempt. Key Requirements of SEBI’s Cybersecurity Framework To meet the SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance mandate, entities must: Conduct Risk Assessments – Determine weaknesses in infrastructure. Implement Security Controls – Firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection, etc. Regular Vulnerability Testing – Use VAPT (Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing). Incident Response Plans – Develop detailed response plans for cyberattacks. Employee Awareness Training – Mitigate insider threat risk. Third-Party Risk Management – Vendors are not excluded. Real-Time Monitoring – Use Security Operations Centers (SOCs). Industry Impact of the Extension The SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance update is helpful to the industry because of the following reasons: Extra Time for Complete Implementation – Refraining from early releases and potential loopholes. Improved Vendor Coordination – Including vendor specifications on third-party service providers too. Improved Testing – Extended time frame for security audits and penetration tests. Reduced Operating Stress – Enables companies to retain the level of service quality resulting from upgrading. Compliance Plan for New Deadline Below is the way market players can maximize this two-month window period: Gap Analysis – Determine what is lacking in your current infrastructure. Prioritize Critical Risks – Mitigate the most crucial security vulnerabilities first. Boost Monitoring Capabilities – Spend in newer SOCs and monitoring tools. Mock Drills – Conduct mock cyber attacks for readiness tests. Document Everything – Keep records of compliance proof for SEBI audits. Risks of Non-Compliance As SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance deadline, failure to comply will have: Regulatory Penalties – Suspension and heavy fines. Damage to Reputation – Loss of investor confidence. Legal Action – When investor information is hacked. Reactions in the Industry Cybersecurity professionals have embraced the SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance move more or less in unity. While almost everyone is on the same page that labeling the extension as necessary is what should be done, they suggest sloth will make end-of-period rushes inevitable, making the value useless. August 31, 2025 To-Do List Carry out thorough VAPT and patch all weaknesses. Activate multi-factor authentication to main systems. Get vendors aligned. Employee phishing detection training. Draft SEBI compliance reports. Conclusion The decision by SEBI to extend cybersecurity compliance by two months is more than just a grace period—it’s a strategic opportunity for market participants to strengthen their cyber defenses, align with regulatory expectations, and build lasting trust with investors. In today’s hyper-connected financial ecosystem, cybersecurity is not merely a regulatory checkbox; it is the backbone of operational resilience and investor confidence. By implementing this extension in the optimum way, companies can perform complete scans for vulnerabilities, introduce advanced threat detection tools, strengthen their talent pool, and become completely compliant with the SEBI cybersecurity framework. By doing this preventive action, compliance at the deadline is not only enabled but valuable information is safeguarded, costly breaches are prevented, and reputation in the market is established. SEBI Accelerates Cybersecurity Compliance to drive readiness, not hinder. The best-positioned firms will be made stronger, tougher, and better positioned to succeed in a more digitally oriented financial world. With cyber threats building at record velocity during an age of historic threat, this window is an opportunity to leapfrog patchwork compliance to the full mastery of cybersecurity. Disclaimer The contents of this blog SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance are intended only for general information and education purposes. Even though all reasonable efforts have been made to confirm the facts stated and their publication as accurate and reliable, SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) issued rules, regulations, and compliance requirements change and are

Dark Pattern Solutions For Ethical UI/UX Know It All Design persuades but it mustn’t deceive. As India’s digital market grows, more users are spotting design tactics that push them into unintended choices. These manipulative UI patterns known as dark patterns may lift short-term metrics, but they damage trust, invite regulatory action and harm long-term growth. This guide shows practical, ethical alternatives that protect users and strengthen brands. What are dark patterns? Dark patterns are interface choices crafted to benefit the business at the user’s expense. They include hidden add-ons, pre-checked subscriptions, fake scarcity, and intentionally confusing cancellation flows. While they can increase conversion momentarily, they erode credibility and are now in regulatory focus across India. Dark patterns vs ethical UI/UX — quick comparison Aspect Dark Pattern Ethical Design Practice Transparency Costs or conditions hidden until checkout Full disclosure of price, fees and data use upfront User choice Pre-selected consents and auto opt-ins Clear, voluntary opt-ins and visible toggles Language Emotionally manipulative copy Honest, factual messaging Cancellations Multi-step unsubscribe traps One-click, obvious opt-out Data sharing Implicit or disguised consent Explicit, contextual opt-in for each use Goal Maximise short-term conversions Build trust, retention, and quality leads Need a rapid security assessment? Book a VAPT or set up 24×7 SOC monitoring with Lumiverse. Talk to an Expert How to move from manipulation to ethical UX Ethical design is a mindset. Start by prioritising clarity, user control and accessibility. Practically: Design for informed consent: use clear labels, visible toggles and avoid burying permissions in long policy text. Simplify opt-outs: if subscribing is one click, make unsubscribing equally simple. Remove false urgency: use concrete dates or stock counts; don’t manufacture panic. Make accessibility standard: readable fonts, sufficient contrast and keyboard-friendly flows improve trust for everyone. Audit regularly: schedule quarterly UX ethics checks so small changes don’t drift into manipulative territory. Business benefits of ethical design Ethical UX isn’t a cost it’s an investment. Transparent experiences reduce churn, attract better-quality leads, strengthen compliance posture and generate word-of-mouth referrals. In short: honesty converts better over time. At Lumiverse Solutions, our audits include an Ethical Design Check aligned to India’s regulatory guidance and international best practices. We also pair UX work with security and compliance advice — see our pieces on RBI’s .bank.in directive, cybersecurity for banks, and AI-driven phishing protection. Final thoughts Dark patterns may look like growth hacks — but they’re short-lived. Ethical UI/UX preserves customer trust, lowers risk, and builds sustainable growth. Make transparency a design requirement, not an afterthought, and your UX becomes a competitive advantage. Frequently Asked Questions — Dark Patterns in India Q1. What are dark patterns in digital interfaces? Dark patterns are deceptive design tactics used by websites or apps to manipulate user choices —such as tricking them into subscriptions, sharing data, or buying unintentionally. They harm transparency and trust. Q2. Which authority regulates dark patterns in India? The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) enforces guidelines on dark patterns. The 2023 guidance identifies deceptive practices and expects platforms to remove such UI tactics. Q3. What penalties exist for using dark patterns? Penalties can include fines, product takedowns or orders to remove deceptive UX. Reputational damage and user churn are common non-regulatory consequences. Q4. How often should we audit our UX for dark patterns? Quarterly UX ethics audits are recommended. Also run an audit after major product changes or marketing campaigns that introduce new flows or prompts. Q5. How can Lumiverse Solutions help? We provide Ethical Design Audits, UI/UX redesigns, and compliance alignment with CCPA, MeitY and global standards — helping you replace dark patterns with user-first design. Explore more insights: VAPT & Penetration Testing SOC & Incident Response Cybersecurity Blogs Need a rapid security assessment? Book a VAPT or set up 24×7 SOC monitoring with Lumiverse. Talk to an Expert Recent Posts November 1, 2025 Top 10 VAPT Best Practices for 2025: What Organisations Should Be Doing Now October 29, 2025 How to Get STQC GIGW 3.0 Certification | Complete Audit & Compliance Process Explained October 22, 2025 RBI’s Compliance Crackdown: What Co-op Banks Can Learn from Recent Penalties October 6, 2025 Nashik Cyber Fraud: Fake E-Challan App Targets Bank & WhatsApp Users September 23, 2025 CERT-In Mandates Annual Cybersecurity Audits for MSMEs in India September 2, 2025 Top 5 Cloud Security Risks in 2025: How to Protect Your Business in the Cloud August 11, 2025 SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance by Two Months Know It All August 7, 2025 What Is .bank.in Domain? RBI’s New Mandate Explained July 14, 2025 Dark Pattern Solutions For Ethical UI/UX Know It All July 8, 2025 Dark Pattern Guidelines 2023: What Every Indian Business Must Know Categories Cyber Security Security Operations Center Cloud Security Case Study Technology Trends Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing (VAPT) Buy our VAPT services to identify vulnerabilities, simulate real-world attacks, and strengthen your systems against cyber threats effectively. Buy Now Important Subscribe to our Research Enter your email address to subscribe to Lumiverse Research and receive notifications of new posts by email. Tell Us Your Opinion We value your perspective! Share your thoughts, feedback, or questions below. Your opinion matters and helps create a richer, more engaging conversation. Let’s connect and hear what you think about this post! INTRODUCTION With today’s digital world, users are becoming increasingly skeptical regarding manipulative design, otherwise known as dark patterns deceptive interfaces that trick users into doing things they don’t even notice. What if your interface could be transparent and treat users with respect rather than deceiving them but still meet business goals? That is what Dark Pattern Solutions are all about.  What Are Dark Patterns and Why Do They Fail Dark patterns are design techniques intended to influence user behavior without clear, informed consent picture sneaky opt-ins, unclear unsubscribe journeys, or misleading urgency messages. Though they may provide short-term conversion increases, they typically contribute to long-term distrust, brand backlash, and even legal action according to legislation such as GDPR, CCPA, and upcoming Indian privacy laws. Dark Pattern Solutions is not about smarter methods

Dark Pattern Guidelines 2023: What Every Indian Business Must Know Digital design today shapes how consumers interact, decide, and trust. But when interfaces mislead users into taking unintended actions subscribing, sharing data, or paying extra they cross the line into dark patterns. Recognising the growing impact of such practices, India’s Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) introduced the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns, 2023. These guidelines mark a turning point in digital accountability, ensuring brands build experiences based on clarity, fairness, and consent. This blog by Lumiverse Solutions breaks down what the guidelines mean, who they apply to, and how your business can design ethically to stay compliant and trusted. What Are Dark Patterns? Dark patterns are UI/UX design tactics that deceive or manipulate users into taking actions they didn’t intend often benefiting the platform or seller. Common examples include hidden costs, guilt-tripping messages, or making it hard to unsubscribe. Hidden costs revealed only at checkout “Confirm shaming” messages like “Are you sure you want to miss this deal?” Difficult unsubscribe or cancellation flows False urgency such as “Only 1 left!” when stock is stable Overview of the Dark Pattern Guidelines 2023 Key Element Explanation Issuing Authority Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), Ministry of Consumer Affairs Date Announced November 30, 2023 Applies To Online platforms, marketplaces, advertisers, and sellers operating in India Objective Prevent misleading design practices and protect consumer rights in digital interfaces Penalty Violations can lead to fines and restrictions under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 11 Dark Patterns Identified by the CCPA False Urgency – Creating fake scarcity to rush decisions. Basket Sneaking – Adding items or costs automatically. Confirm Shaming – Guilt-tripping users into agreeing. Forced Action – Requiring unrelated actions to access a service. Subscription Trap – Hidden terms or difficult cancellations. Interface Interference – Nudging users visually toward one option. Bait and Switch – Promising one thing, delivering another. Drip Pricing – Concealing mandatory costs until checkout. Disguised Ads – Making sponsored content look organic. Nagging – Repetitive pop-ups or notifications. Trick Questions – Confusing wording to get unwanted consent. Need a rapid security assessment? Book a VAPT or set up 24×7 SOC monitoring with Lumiverse. Talk to an Expert Who Needs to Comply? All digital businesses and advertisers in India must comply from e-commerce and travel platforms to fintech, edtech, and influencers promoting products. Essentially, any digital interface collecting data, payments, or consent must follow these norms. How Businesses Can Stay Compliant Step Action 1. Conduct UX Audits Review your platform for misleading flows or unclear consent mechanisms. 2. Update UI/UX Design Simplify opt-outs, disclosures, and pricing. Remove auto-opt-ins and hidden fees. 3. Use Clear Communication Replace manipulative language with neutral, informative text. 4. Obtain Explicit Consent Ensure users actively agree to data sharing or subscriptions. 5. Train Teams Align design, marketing, and legal teams with compliance goals. 6. Partner with Experts Collaborate with ethical UX partners like Lumiverse Solutions for audits and compliance guidance. Why These Guidelines Matter Protect Consumer Rights – Empower users to make informed decisions. Enhance Brand Credibility – Ethical design strengthens reputation. Reduce Regulatory Risk – Avoid fines or penalties. Build Long-Term Loyalty – Transparency drives retention and advocacy. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. Are dark patterns now illegal in India? Yes. Under the 2023 guidelines, deceptive UX or marketing tactics can attract penalties under the Consumer Protection Act. 2. Who monitors compliance? The CCPA oversees enforcement, supported by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. 3. Do these rules apply to small businesses? Yes, any platform, regardless of size, must avoid manipulative UI/UX practices. 4. What is a “subscription trap”? It’s when users are unknowingly signed up for recurring payments or face barriers to cancellation. 5. How can Lumiverse Solutions help? We assist in Ethical UX Audits, Dark Pattern Remediation, and Compliance Alignment for CCPA, GDPR, and RBI frameworks. Explore more insights: VAPT & Penetration Testing SOC & Incident Response Cybersecurity Blogs Need a rapid security assessment? Book a VAPT or set up 24×7 SOC monitoring with Lumiverse. Talk to an Expert Recent Posts November 1, 2025 Top 10 VAPT Best Practices for 2025: What Organisations Should Be Doing Now October 29, 2025 How to Get STQC GIGW 3.0 Certification | Complete Audit & Compliance Process Explained October 22, 2025 RBI’s Compliance Crackdown: What Co-op Banks Can Learn from Recent Penalties October 6, 2025 Nashik Cyber Fraud: Fake E-Challan App Targets Bank & WhatsApp Users September 23, 2025 CERT-In Mandates Annual Cybersecurity Audits for MSMEs in India September 2, 2025 Top 5 Cloud Security Risks in 2025: How to Protect Your Business in the Cloud August 11, 2025 SEBI Extends Cybersecurity Compliance by Two Months Know It All August 7, 2025 What Is .bank.in Domain? RBI’s New Mandate Explained July 14, 2025 Dark Pattern Solutions For Ethical UI/UX Know It All July 8, 2025 Dark Pattern Guidelines 2023: What Every Indian Business Must Know Categories Cyber Security Security Operations Center Cloud Security Case Study Technology Trends Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing (VAPT) Buy our VAPT services to identify vulnerabilities, simulate real-world attacks, and strengthen your systems against cyber threats effectively. Buy Now Important Subscribe to our Research Enter your email address to subscribe to Lumiverse Research and receive notifications of new posts by email. Tell Us Your Opinion We value your perspective! Share your thoughts, feedback, or questions below. Your opinion matters and helps create a richer, more engaging conversation. Let’s connect and hear what you think about this post! INTRODUCTION With the world becoming increasingly digital, user experience (UX) has come to be at the center of application and website design. But all design is not done with the best interest of the user. More and more often, misleading design tactics referred to as dark patterns are being put into regulation and in the public eye. As such, with mounting concern, a mass Dark Pattern Alert has been raised within the industry. This blog offers an end-to-end guide on comprehending, recognizing, and eradicating dark patterns.