LEGAL MECHANISMS FOR CONSUMER PROTECTION UNDER ALGERIAN E-COMMERCE LAW

Purpose: This study aims to clarify the consumer's essential need for protection under Legal Perspective No. 18/05 and to reveal the extent of this protection throughout all stages of contracting.   Theoretical Framework: Despite the advantages offered by electronic marketing, the electronic environment is rife with risks that impact all elements of the relationship involving the consumer, who is considered the most critical and final link in the product cycle aimed at fulfilling its consumer purpose and meeting desires. Given the consumer's lack of information culture in the digital environment, the Algerian legislator, through Law No. 18/05, sought to protect the consumer during the stages of electronic contracting.   Methods: Highlighting the key provisions, rules, and articles introduced by the Algerian E-Commerce Law No. 18/05 through comprehensive analysis to emphasize the effectiveness of mechanisms for protecting the digital consumer.   Results and Discussion: The distinguishing feature of these transactions is that they take place in the virtual world, remotely, using the latest electronic communication tools. This exposes consumers to various types of fraud, deception, and violations, reflecting the darker side of electronic commercial transactions and making the consumer the primary victim. This prompted the Algerian legislator to adopt E-Commerce Law No. 05/18, dated May 10, 2018, by establishing legal mechanisms to protect the electronic consumer throughout the various stages of contractual operations.   Abstract: The revised legal framework represents a proactive step by the Algerian state to enhance the e-commerce sector by ensuring legal protection for consumers at all stages of contractual operations. Law No. 18-05 aims to demonstrate the extent to which the Algerian legislator has moved beyond traditional consumer protection frameworks, keeping pace with developments in commerce within the digital environment.   Originality/Value: The value of this research lies in the Algerian E-Commerce Law No. 18/05, which was issued to protect consumers in the digital environment.