Temu Shopping App Accused of Unauthorized Data Monetization in Lawsuit

By Madz Dizon

Jun 28, 2024 05:29 AM EDT

Temu Shopping App Accused of Unauthorized Data Monetization in Lawsuit
The Temu logo is displayed on a laptop on February 26, 2024 in San Anselmo, California. The Chinese online marketplace app is gaining popularity in the United States.
(Photo : Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

According to a lawsuit filed by Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, Temu, a Chinese shopping app that has gained popularity in the US, is accused of secretly monetizing unauthorized user data, which is concerning.

Temu's Potential Access to Extensive Phone Data

Griffin highlighted research and media reports that revealed concerns about Temu's design, suggesting that it may provide extensive access to a user's phone operating system, including camera, location, contacts, messages, documents, and other applications.

Griffin expresses concern about the potential for Temu to gain access to a wide range of personal data on a phone, which could pose significant privacy and security threats to both individuals who use the app and those who do not. 

According to the claims made in Griffin's suit, individuals who send text messages or emails to someone using the shopping app may unknowingly expose their private data to Temu, ARS Technica reported. 

It is alleged that Temu then profits from this by selling the data to third parties, thereby compromising the privacy rights of users.

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Temu Refutes Accusation

According to Temu's response, the allegations made in Griffin's lawsuit are completely unfounded and are primarily based on misinformation spread online, particularly by a short-seller. 

The company emphasized its commitment to vigorously defending itself in the case, according to the statement.

According to KNWA via MSN, Arkansans whose shop on Temu had strong reactions to the news of the lawsuit, with many praising the retailer for its reliable prices and irresistible deals.

According to other shoppers, it seems that there is a general belief that many online retailers already use personal information from users. They also raised doubts about whether the lawsuit would actually deter anyone from shopping on Temu.

The statement from Temu highlighted that there may be some misconceptions surrounding the company's "innovative supply chain model" and potential resistance to the new retailer. 

However, the spokesperson emphasized the company's dedication to long-term growth and expressed confidence that scrutiny would ultimately contribute to the retailer's progress.

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