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EU Draft Bill Targets Unfair Digital Practices With Fines of Up to 6%

By  |  November 9, 2026
EU Procurement

Companies could face fines of up to 6% of their annual global turnover for unfair online commercial practices under proposed European Union legislation, according to a draft document reported by Reuters on Monday.

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    The proposed Digital Fairness Act would introduce rules targeting manipulative online design, personalized advertising and pricing practices, Reuters reported.

    The draft includes restrictions on so-called dark patterns, which are website and application designs that influence consumers’ purchasing decisions through misleading or manipulative techniques.

    The legislation would also prohibit personalized advertising targeting children and vulnerable consumers, according to Reuters.

    Businesses using dynamic pricing would be required to disclose how many products or tickets are available at an advertised price. Dynamic pricing allows companies to adjust prices according to demand.

    The draft also includes provisions requiring online platforms to allow users to disable features designed to encourage excessive engagement, Reuters reported.

    Companies violating the proposed rules could face penalties calculated on their worldwide annual turnover.

    Consumer advocacy group Finance Watch raised concerns about the scope of the proposal, particularly its protections for users of online investment services.

    Peter Norwood, a senior research and advocacy officer at Finance Watch, said the measures addressing manipulative digital practices did not provide sufficient safeguards for financial consumers, according to Reuters.

    EU Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath is expected to present the proposal Wednesday, Reuters reported.

    The legislation would require approval from the European Parliament and EU member states before becoming law.

    Source: Reuters