Legal Protection for Consumers in E-Commerce Transactions: Challenges and Solutions in the Digital Era

How can consumers be better protected when shopping online? This academic article examines legal challenges in e-commerce, including fraudulent sellers, misleading advertising, personal data risks, unfair contract terms and difficulties obtaining redress. Published in the Journal of Mujaddid Nusantara in March 2025, the paper uses a qualitative, doctrinal legal research approach based on legal documents and existing literature. Its discussion focuses primarily on Indonesia, with references to international consumer-protection and data-privacy frameworks. The authors argue that effective protection requires more than legislation alone. Their recommendations include stronger enforcement, clearer product information and transaction terms, greater platform accountability, consumer education and accessible dispute-resolution mechanisms. The paper also discusses cross-border cooperation and online mediation and arbitration as approaches to addressing disputes in digital commerce. For business owners, marketers, customer-service teams and students, the article provides material for considering how transparency, responsible data handling and complaint management relate to customer trust. For Cambodian readers, its value lies in comparative learning; its discussion of Indonesian legislation should not be interpreted as Cambodian legal requirements. Read the full English-language article to explore the authors’ analysis and recommendations. This publication is an academic legal study, rather than a Cambodia-specific market survey or a complete business compliance guide.