Protecting the Electronic Consumer from Misleading Commercial Advertising in the Digital Environment

Abstract

Electronic advertising remains a highly controversial issue, particularly in its commercial aspect, when an electronic supplier markets products in the digital environment and relies on misleading methods that affect the decision of the electronic consumer. The consumer may later discover that the information provided in the advertisements does not reflect the true nature of the good or service, which poses a threat to the relationship between the consumer and the electronic supplier. Therefore, advertisements containing misleading information negatively affect the consumer’s freedom and willingness to obtain accurate information.

As a result of the development of electronic marketing methods, misleading electronic commercial advertising has become a common means of promoting products in virtual markets. Electronic suppliers use it to attract consumers and influence their choices. The protection granted to consumers against such advertisements has developed accordingly. The Algerian legislator has responded to this development by establishing preventive rules to ensure fair commercial advertising activity on the one hand, and by combating misleading electronic advertisements through their prohibition and the punishment of offenders on the other hand.