- Missouri AG Catherine Hanaway filed a lawsuit against Temu, alleging aggressive and misleading business practices, violating Missouri residents’ privacy, hurting Missouri brands, and possible connections to the CCP. A multi-year investigation conducted by the AG’s office found that the Temu app is designed to intentionally and covertly steal large amounts of personally identifiable information (PII) from users’ mobile devices. This includes real-time location data within 10 feet of accuracy, microphone access, camera access, a list of all apps and accounts downloaded on devices, and more.
- The lawsuit alleges that the Temu app contains features that enable unauthorized data collection and can modify its functionality without users’ knowledge or consent. The AG also raises concerns about code reportedly associated with an earlier app version banned from the Google Play Store over malware concerns. The complaint also highlights concerns about Temu’s parent company PDD Holdings’ operations in China and Chinese laws that may require companies to provide government authorities access to data while restricting disclosure of that access.
- Additionally, AG Hanaway alleges that Temu lacks adequate age verification or parental consent measures, uses advertising and gamification tactics that may appeal to minors, and makes potentially dangerous products, including weapons and drug paraphernalia, available on its platform. AG Hanaway is seeking a permanent injunction, civil penalties, and other relief for violation of the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act.