LCEN (Law for Trust in the Digital Economy)
What does LCEN mean?
The Loi pour la Confiance dans l’Économie Numérique (LCEN) is France’s digital-economy law (2004). It governs online disclosures, intermediary responsibility, and e-commerce practices.
How does LCEN work?
LCEN requires mentions légales, defines conditions for hosting provider liability, and sets e-commerce rules such as pre-contract information and electronic confirmations.
Why is it important?
LCEN shapes transparency and accountability online in France and operates alongside the GDPR and consumer protection codes.
FAQs about LCEN
Yes. If you target French users, LCEN obligations apply.
LCEN focuses on transparency, hosting, and e-commerce; GDPR covers personal data.
Missing mentions légales can trigger fines up to €75,000 (individuals) and €375,000 (companies). Other breaches may also carry sanctions.
Yes. It requires clear offers, the ability to correct orders, and electronic confirmations.
Consumer authorities and courts; hosts may face duties when notified about illegal content.