CONSUMER PROTECTION AGAINST ONLINE PURCHASE FRAUD IN MALAYSIA: AN ANALYSIS OF THE CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT 1999

There has been an increase in complaints received by the authorities of late concerning fraudulent online purchase cases. Consumers are faced with various modus operandi and fraudulent tactics when making online purchases even though the authorities have provided a safe-purchase guideline for online purchases. Hence, this qualitative study aims to analyse the legal framework surrounding consumer protection involving online shopping in Malaysia. Data were obtained using the content analysis and semi-structured interview methods. Findings indicate that online consumers are protected under the Consumer Protection Act 1999 in cases related to fraudulent online purchases.