Law Research Review Quarterly
Vol. 12 No. 6 (2026): Special Edition Part 2

The Click That Binds: Dark Patterns and Consent Paradox in Indonesian Electronic Contracts

Reza Kautsar Kusumahpraja (Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa)
Muhammad Fauzi Rais Lutfi (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Jul 2026

Abstract

The rise of digital transactions has shifted contract formation towards electronic clickwrap agreements. Nonetheless, the appearance of dark patterns manipulative interface designs that influence consumer choices poses a threat to the core principle of consensus ad idem (mutual agreement). This research examines the line between formal agreements and true consent in online contracts affected by dark patterns, exploring their impact on the principle of consensualism in Indonesian contract law. Employing legislative, conceptual, and comparative legal methods, the findings highlight a paradox: although a consumer's click may be legally binding, digital mechanisms can subtly distort free will, effectively creating a modern version of will. While many advanced nations have established supervisory tools, Indonesia's existing legal framework currently lacks specific regulations against dark patterns. Ultimately, Indonesia's digital contract law should evolve from emphasising formal agreements to ensuring substantive, informed consent. This study introduces the "Digital Will Legitimacy Test," focusing on three key indicators: proper information disclosure, autonomous will, and genuine consent.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

snh

Publisher

Subject

Education Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice

Description

The Law Research Review Quarterly has a history and rich vein of legal scholarship, especially for law student, combining distinct publication on the law of Indonesia, as well as Southeast Asia, and prominence within the Faculty of Law Universitas Negeri Semarang, with leading contributions to the ...