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This book assesses whether EU consumer law effectively protects consumers in cloud computing contracts. From music subscriptions and streaming services to online gaming and social networks, cloud-based services are an integral part of our daily lives. Understanding the legal landscape of cloud computing is therefore crucial. The convenience of cloud computing raises significant legal questions about consumer rights. What if all emails are lost? Can someone unauthorised access online photos? Is it possible to cancel a video streaming subscription or transfer music elsewhere? The book scrutinises the adequacy of EU consumer contract law in addressing these issues, evaluating its coherence and effectiveness in safeguarding consumers'' interests and fostering trust in cloud services. It looks at the entire lifecycle of a cloud computing contract, highlighting critical consumer problems, such as unclear information, service availability, data integrity, and unbalanced contract terms. Written for legal scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and market participants, the book offers a comprehensive analysis of EU law provisions on cloud computing contracts. As cloud technology continues to evolve and integrate into mainstream IT solutions, ensuring a robust and consistent legal framework is paramount for consumer protection and the advancement of the EU digital market.
List of contents
1. Introduction
2. Cloud Computing, its Development and Relevance
3. Consumer Risks in Cloud Computing
4. Sources of EU Law and their Scope
5. Notion of Consumer and Classification of Cloud Products
6. Conclusion of a Contract, Pre-contractual Information and Withdrawal
7. Obligations of the Cloud Provider and Conformity with the Contract
8. Remedies in Cloud Computing
9. Fairness of Standard Contract Terms and Conditions
10. Business Practices as Regards Standard Terms and Conditions
11. Conflict of Laws and Jurisdiction in Cloud Contracts
12. Privacy and Security in the Cloud
13. Overall Assessment
About the author
Tomasz Dolny is deputy head of unit at the Directorate-General for Financial Stability, Financial Services and the Capital Markets Union of the European Commission (DG FISMA), Belgium.
