Civil Liability of Digital Platform Providers for User Losses Resulting from Data Breaches

The proliferation of digital platforms has increased the collection and processing of personal data while simultaneously amplifying the risk of data breaches that may result in user losses. The central issue concerns the legal framework governing the civil liability of digital platform providers and the effectiveness of mechanisms for obtaining compensation for such losses. This study examines the forms of civil liability applicable to digital platform providers acting as personal data controllers and the mechanisms for resolving compensation claims through both nonjudicial and judicial proceedings. It employs a normative legal research methodology, incorporating statutory, conceptual, and case-based approaches, together with a qualitative and prescriptive analysis of primary and secondary legal sources. Civil liability may arise from either a breach of contract (wanprestasi) or a tort (perbuatan melawan hukum), as governed by Indonesia’s Personal Data Protection (PDP) Law and Civil Code. The effectiveness of compensation mechanisms depends on establishing the violation, fault, damages, and a causal relationship between the wrongful conduct and the resulting losses, including both material and nonmaterial damages. This study concludes that strengthening data controllers’ accountability, ensuring transparency in evidentiary procedures, and improving access to dispute resolution mechanisms are essential to ensuring the effective protection and restoration of users’ rights.