Centre has launched framework for safeguarding and protecting consumer interest from fake and deceptive reviews in e-commerce. Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Rohit Kumar Singh launched the framework in New Delhi on Monday. The standards will be applicable to every online platform which publishes consumer reviews. The standard will initially be voluntary for compliance by all e-commerce platforms. Bureau of Indian Standards will also develop a Conformity Assessment Scheme for the standard within fifteen days to assess compliance.

Violation of the standards by any entity may be considered as an unfair trade practice or violation of consumer rights. A consumer may submit such grievances to the National Consumer Helpline, Consumer Fora or the Central Consumer Protection Authority.

The standard provides for responsibilities of organization including developing a code of practice, and necessary stipulations for terms and conditions like accessibility, criteria, and ensuring content does not contain financial information.