Paper Title
THE LEGAL PROTECTION OF PERSONAL DATA IN THE DIGITAL ENVIRONMENT

Abstract
In light of the rapid transformations taking place in the field of information and communication technology, and the accompanying significant expansion in the collection, processing, and circulation of personal data via electronic means, the issue of personal data protection in the digital environment has come to the fore due to the diverse forms of infringement to which personal data is exposed. The problem addressed in this study is to examine the adequacy of the legal framework governing the protection of personal data in the digital environment in light of the rapid development of modern technologies and the resulting expansion in the collection, processing, and circulation of data through advanced electronic means. To achieve the objectives of this study, a descriptive-analytical approach was adopted by addressing concepts related to personal data and its characteristics, and analyzing the legal texts governing it, while utilizing a comparative approach in certain aspects to highlight the positions of various legislations in regulating this field. This study concluded that there is a wide variety of forms of personal data breaches in the digital environment, including unlawful collection, unlawful processing, hacking, data theft, and other forms of infringement. Therefore, this study recommended the need to develop the legal framework for personal data protection in a manner consistent with the nature of the digital environment, and to strengthen the obligations of data controllers, while adopting flexible legal standards to determine liability, thereby striking a balance between the requirements of technological development and ensuring the protection of individuals’ privacy. Keywords - Personal Data, Legal Protection, Privacy, Data Processing, Legal Liability.