In today’s fast-paced digital world, snagging a bargain online feels like a win—until checkout hits and the price skyrockets with unexpected charges. This frustrating hidden fees hiking tactic, known as drip pricing, lures shoppers with low initial prices only to add hidden fees later, leaving many feeling scammed. India’s Department of Consumer Affairs has sounded the alarm on these “Hidden Fees Hiking” practices, urging consumers to fight back. If you’ve watched your cart total balloon on sites like Flipkart or apps like Swiggy, you’re not alone. The good news? Help is just a call away at the National Consumer Helpline (1915). This crackdown aims to protect millions from deceptive e-commerce tricks that erode trust and inflate costs.
Hidden Fees Hiking: Sneaky Charges Exposed on Top Platforms
Drip pricing thrives on popular apps and websites, where fees hide until the last moment. Regulators spotlight these as unfair “dark patterns” that mislead buyers. Here’s a breakdown of common culprits:
- Amazon: Slaps on a “marketplace fee” that wasn’t mentioned upfront, turning a discounted gadget into a pricier grab.
- Flipkart: Piles on “offer handling fee,” “payment handling fee,” “protect promise fee,” “pick up charge,” and “platform fee”—even for simple phone buys like the OnePlus 11 5G.
- Swiggy and Zepto: Under “GST & Other Charges,” they tack on “restaurant packaging,” “platform fee,” and “restaurant GST.” Order in-person at the same spot? No extras. Cancel within a minute? Expect a 100% fee hit, same as Zomato.
- General Traps: Food delivery apps charge for perks you don’t see coming, while e-commerce sites bury costs in fine print, hiking final bills by 10-20%.
These fees don’t just annoy—they violate consumer rights by obscuring true costs. The Department of Consumer Affairs launched this awareness drive on October 23, 2025, to empower users. “Report drip pricing now,” officials say, “and help us build fairer online markets.”
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Yet, questions linger. After dialing 1915, what happens next? Will complaints trigger refunds or fines for platforms? Consumers wonder: Skip the buy altogether, or proceed and seek compensation? The department promises action, but transparency on follow-ups remains key.
This push against Hidden Fees Hiking marks a vital step for India’s booming e-commerce scene, valued at billions. Shoppers, stay vigilant—scan totals early and report boldly. Call 1915 today to join the fight for honest pricing. Your voice could slash those sneaky hikes for good.
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