The Role of Mass Media Law in Realizing Social Control in the Digital Era

Abstract

In the digital era marked by advances in information and communication technology, mass media plays a crucial role as a tool of social control. This study aims to analyze the role of mass media law in realizing social control in Indonesia, with a focus on the challenges and opportunities arising from digital transformation. The research method used is descriptive qualitative, through a literature review including books, journal articles, and other reliable sources. The results show that mass media law serves as a regulatory framework governing media activities in disseminating information. However, there are significant challenges related to press freedom and the potential for abuse of the law to silence criticism. Social media has expanded the space for social control, but also carries the risk of spreading false information. Protecting individual rights, especially regarding personal data privacy, is a crucial issue that must be addressed by law. Increasing media literacy among the public is essential to creating critical consumers of information. Furthermore, collaboration between the government, media, and civil society is key to creating a healthy media ecosystem