🔆 Key Takeaways: Digital Platform Degradation (Enshittification) ✅ Digital Platform Degradation (Enshittification): • As digital platforms mature, user experience worsens—a phenomenon termed “enshittification” by journalist Cory Doctorow. • Platforms initially prioritize users, then business clients, and eventually prioritize self-interest and profits. ✅ User Exploitation and Monetisation: • Companies like Amazon, Spotify, and YouTube increasingly restrict user benefits (e.g., ads, reduced discounts, paid subscriptions). • Escalating imposition of non-negotiable “platform fees” and “handling charges” represents a monetisation strategy post-dominance. ✅ Systemic Issues in Digital Ecosystems: • Enshittification reflects systemic issues beyond just rising fees—such as device-based price discrimination and lack of transparency. • Example: Differential pricing based on device type (iPhone vs. Android) without user consent or recourse. ✅ Dark Patterns and Manipulative UI: • Platforms are increasingly using dark patterns to manipulate user behavior: ▪ False urgency (limited-time offers) ▪ Basket sneaking (adding items without consent) ▪ Drip pricing (hidden charges at checkout) ▪ Nagging (constant prompts) ▪ Subscription traps (making cancellations difficult) • These practices mislead users and reduce informed choice. ✅ Legal and Regulatory Framework in India: • Various laws and regulations aim to protect consumers: ▪ Consumer Protection Act, 2019 – Identifies unfair practices. ▪ E-Commerce Rules, 2020 – Enhances pricing transparency and prohibits unfair trade practices. ▪ Information Technology Rules, 2021 – Mandates redressal systems. ▪ Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 – Ensures user consent and privacy. ▪ Competition Act, 2002 – Regulates anti-competitive practices. ✅ Need for Stronger Regulatory Mechanisms: • India’s digital framework needs to evolve to counter subtle, deceptive practices. • Global models (e.g., EU’s Digital Markets Act) offer templates for stricter compliance and user protection, including: ▪ Banning self-preferencing, ▪ Ensuring interoperability, ▪ Mandatory UX audits, ▪ Defining “dark patterns.” #gs3 #science_and_technology