LEGAL PROTECTION IN VIRTUAL CONSUMER RELATIONS: AN ANALYSIS IN THE LIGHT OF THE PRINCIPLE OF CONSUMER VULNERABILITY

Abstract

This study addresses the implications of the principle of vulnerability in virtual consumer relations, considering the main flaws and gaps in the legal protection of consumers in the context of e-commerce. Online commerce, with its growing impact, exposes the consumer to specific risks, which require an in-depth analysis of legal rules and the liability of suppliers to ensure the protection of consumer rights. The objective of the study was to analyze how the existing legal norms apply to new forms of consumption and what are the challenges faced by consumers, especially with regard to vulnerability in virtual relationships. The research followed a qualitative approach, characterized as a literature review, based on sources such as CAPES journals, Google Scholar and Brazilian and international legislation. Descriptors such as "legal protection", "virtual consumer relations" and "consumer vulnerability" were used to search for studies published between 2018 and 2025, which explored the legal aspects of online consumption. As a result, the study identified that, although there are norms such as the Consumer Protection Code and the General Data Protection Law, there are still significant gaps in the application of these laws in the context of e-commerce. Finally, it was concluded that the adaptation of legislation and legal practices is essential to ensure legal certainty and effective consumer protection in virtual transactions.