Legal Framework for Protecting Consumer Personal Data in E-Commerce Contracts

Abstract

This research addresses the legal regulation of personal data protection for consumers in electronic commerce contracts, in light of the rapid development of electronic means used to conclude contracts and conduct commercial transactions. This development has resulted in a significant increase in the amount of personal data provided by consumers to electronic websites and platforms, raising several legal issues concerning the collection, processing, storage, and use of such data, as well as the risks of its unauthorized disclosure or exploitation.

The research aims to examine the concept of consumers’ personal data and its legal nature, and to identify the principal obligations imposed on parties engaged in electronic commerce to ensure the protection of such data. These obligations include informing the consumer, obtaining valid consent, maintaining the confidentiality of personal information, and ensuring that data is used only for legitimate purposes. The research also examines the legal mechanisms available to consumers when their personal data is violated, in addition to civil liability and the legal sanctions arising from breaches of data protection rules.

The research concludes that personal data protection constitutes one of the fundamental elements for establishing trust and security in electronic commerce contracts. Effective legal protection requires a clear and comprehensive legislative framework that balances the requirements of electronic commerce with the consumer’s right to privacy and protection of personal data. It also requires strengthening supervisory mechanisms, legal sanctions, and compensation mechanisms for damages resulting from violations of personal data.