Book Title: Digital Business and Intelligent Technologies
Editors: Dr. S. Fenin Samuel, Dr. D. Kinslin, Dr. S. Edmund Christopher, and Dr. J.S. Kishore
ISBN: 978-81-69297-52-3
Chapter: 14
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/723/14
Author: Dr. R. Radhika
Abstract
This chapter explores the evolution of consumer protection in the digital age, highlighting its significance amidst the rapid growth of e-commerce and online services. It begins by providing a historical context of traditional consumer protection laws and how they have adapted to address challenges posed by digital transactions. The chapter emphasizes the increasing importance of safeguarding consumer rights in the face of vulnerabilities such as identity theft, data breaches, and misleading online advertisements. The chapter discusses the impact of digital transactions on data privacy, examining how the rise of e-commerce has led to heightened concerns regarding consumer data collection and usage. It provides an overview of global data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), while addressing the challenges businesses face in compliance and the resulting impact on consumer trust. Transparency and fair practices in e-commerce are emphasized, with a focus on consumer rights regarding return policies, refund guarantees, and product transparency. The chapter highlights the challenges of misleading advertising and online scams, detailing how regulatory frameworks are addressing these issues. Cybersecurity threats are explored, discussing the growing vulnerability of consumers to hacking and phishing attacks. Strategies for protecting consumer data, including encryption and secure payment systems, are examined alongside the legal responsibilities of businesses in the event of a data breach. Finally, the chapter predicts future trends in consumer protection, focusing on the role of technology in safeguarding consumer rights and the evolving regulatory landscape in response to advancing digital business practices.