The IT and telecom sectors are by excellence technology driven and subject to constant and rapid developments. The new products and services in these markets and the increased use of mobile applications also have consequences for the legal arena. Regulations must continue to keep up with where developments rapidly take place, and compliance with these regulations sometimes requires a creative approach to achieve workable solutions. The enforcement of laws and regulations lies with the Authority Consumer & Market. The European Commission has the digital and technological changes and matters high on its agenda.

'Social Media is here to stay'. The effects of the use of social media are also visible in the legal arena. There have been court decisions on unlawful statements on Facebook, employment relation clauses relating to LinkedIn and shocking tweets on Twitter. Privacy clearly plays a role, for example in the use of personal data by companies for advertising purposes. Improper behavior on social media will become more frequent and more severe restricted. After all, even in the virtual world, there are values and the conscious and structured behaviour with social media needs more attention. This has begun with the introduction of the Social Media Advertising Code, which is part of the Dutch Advertising Code since January 1, 2014.

Due to the large and sometimes opaque digital offering of many new products and services, additional safeguards are still needed for online buying and selling. This also in a time when consumers are more empowered than before and seem to have more knowledge of various markets. Website developers and companies / shop owners need to know how the online ordering process should be structured, what steps are required and where which information should be given. On the other hand, it is important to clearly communicate what the client can and may expect, how the site should be used, which comments can and cannot be placed, etc.. Thus there are responsibilities on both sides. Privacy issues are also important here. The rules for online sales are included in the Civil Code (distance contracts). As of June 13, 2014 significant new rules apply.

'Privacy is hot'. Because of the easy access to data the importance of privacy has only increased and this is recognized by both consumers and organisations. In today's marketing tools of companies personal data of customers play an important role. Laws and regulations describe how the online collection and use of personal data should be done. Failure to comply with these rules may result in fines and image damage. The Dutch Data Protection Authority supervises compliance with the rules. As from 25 May, 2018 the General Data Protection Regulation applies, which is the result of European cooperation. The GDPR replaces the current privacy law and is much more stricter.

Between parties commitments can occur for example by closing a contract. Parties agree to lay down therein their agreements for services, selling or procurement of products, a collaboration and / or project. Examples of contracts: settlement agreement, framework agreement, letter of intent, non-disclosure agreement, general terms and conditions. In principle parties have a lot of freedom in making appointments, but are sometimes more or less restricted by laws and regulations, as in the case of online sales, agency. It is important to make clear agreements because they are decisive for the interpretation of the agreement to resolve and settle an unexpected dispute.