Shein probed over alleged child safety violations

International

THE European Union has launched a formal investigation into fast fashion company Shein over possible violations of digital safety laws, including the alleged sale of childlike sex dolls, according to a report by BBC News.

The European Commission said it will examine the systems Shein uses to prevent illegal products from being sold on its platform, including materials that could be linked to child sexual abuse. Authorities will also review concerns about the platform’s design, particularly features that may encourage excessive use, as well as the transparency of its product recommendation system.

Shein said that protecting minors and minimizing harmful content are key priorities in operating its platform.

Reports last year indicated that French authorities flagged the company for offering sex dolls described as having childlike features. Shein said it immediately removed the products, banned the sellers involved, and prohibited the sale of sex dolls across its global platform regardless of appearance. The company also stated that it cooperated with local and international authorities during related investigations.

The Commission said it will review Shein’s efforts to restrict the sale of illegal products, which could include dangerous items such as weapons, though specific products were not identified. Officials noted that Shein has responded cooperatively to previous requests for information, but added that formal proceedings can be opened if there are signs of systemic risks to users.

EU regulators are also examining the platform’s reward programs and gamified features, which they say could contribute to addictive online behavior. Officials clarified that reward programs themselves are not prohibited but raised concerns that the algorithms behind them are often unclear to users.

Another key focus of the probe involves the platform’s recommendation systems, which rely on user data to suggest products. Under the Digital Services Act, online platforms must explain how these recommendations work and provide users with an option that does not rely on personal data profiling.

If violations are confirmed, the European Commission could impose enforcement measures, including fines of up to six percent of a company’s global revenue. Shein previously reported global sales of $38 billion in 2024.

Shein said it has increased investments in strengthening compliance with EU digital regulations. The company added that it has introduced broader risk assessments, improved protections for younger users, and continued efforts to create a safer and more reliable online shopping experience.(Georgia Olivar, USJ-R Comm Intern)