Legal Protection for Digital Content Creators: A Case Study on Social Media Platforms

Deasenza Putra  Hutama; Rommy  Hardyansah; Didit Darmawan

Authors

Deasenza Putra Hutama University of Sunan Giri Surabaya
Rommy Hardyansah University of Sunan Giri Surabaya
Didit Darmawan University of Sunan Giri Surabaya

Keywords:

copyright protection, digital content creator, social media, copyright infringement, legal literacy, regulatory enforcement, Indonesia

Abstract

The rapid advancement of digital transformation has fundamentally reshaped daily life and social interaction, with social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube emerging as powerful spaces for expression, commerce, and innovation. This change has introduced new dynamics and opportunities for digital content creators but has simultaneously exposed them to complex challenges—particularly regarding copyright protection in Indonesia. Although Law No. 28 of 2014 on Copyright and Law No. 19 of 2016 on Electronic Information and Transactions provide a legal framework, their implementation within digital and social media ecosystems remains ineffective. Content creators frequently encounter copyright infringements, including unauthorized reposts, content modifications, and commercial exploitation of works without compensation or due attribution. These violations are exacerbated by weak regulatory enforcement, insufficient legal literacy among content creators, and the limited efficacy of digital monitoring technologies. The lack of robust support and transparent complaint mechanisms by social media platforms further compounds these issues. Contractual relationships between creators and platforms are often unbalanced, privileging platforms at the expense of creators’ exclusive rights. Comparative perspectives and best practices from international jurisdictions highlight the urgent need for regulatory reform in Indonesia. This study employs a normative juridical approach, analyzing relevant laws, case studies, and literature to evaluate the effectiveness of current regulations and propose concrete strategies—including enhanced public legal literacy, improved regulation enforcement, integrated digital oversight, and effective mediation processes. The establishment of a balanced, multifaceted protection ecosystem for digital copyright demands collaboration among the government, digital platforms, and creator communities. Ultimately, safeguarding creators’ rights in the digital era will require persistent regulatory modernization, legal empowerment of creators, and technological innovation, ensuring a fair and sustainable digital creative environment.

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