- Kentucky AG Russell Coleman filed a lawsuit against PDD Holdings Inc. and WhaleCo Inc., d/b/a Temu, alleging widespread violations of state consumer protection laws.
- According to the complaint, the Temu shopping app allegedly collects and misuses sensitive user information without proper disclosure, including granular geolocation, lists of installed apps and associated accounts, and access to a device’s microphone and camera. The lawsuit contends that these privacy violations are exacerbated by the app’s programming, which is allegedly designed to evade detection and oversight.
- The complaint also alleges fraudulent practices, including fake customer reviews and unauthorized charges. It further claims that Temu has sold counterfeit goods bearing the trademarks of well-known Kentucky brands, including Louisville Slugger baseball bats and products affiliated with the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, Keeneland Racecourse, and the University of Kentucky—posing potential harm to brand reputation, jobs, and the local economy.
- The lawsuit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, civil penalties, restitution, and attorneys’ costs and fees, among other forms of relief.
- We previously covered similar lawsuits against Temu by Arkansas AG Tim Griffin and Nebraska AG Mike Hilgers, as well as a letter from 21 GOP AGs to Temu raising concerns about the company’s business practices.