Expert issues warning on popular shopping app over data fears: ‘There is a risk’

In the digital age, the convenience of online shopping has become a staple in our daily lives, particularly for those who appreciate the ease of having goods delivered straight to our doorsteps.

However, with this convenience comes a responsibility to be vigilant about our online safety, especially when engaging with newer e-commerce platforms.

One platform that has caught the attention of cybersecurity experts is a budget online retailer, popular for its ultra-cheap household products.


Since its launch a year ago, PDD Holdings-owned Temu has seen millions of downloads and monthly users.

In Australia, 1.2 million people shop with the Temu app every month.

However, beneath the surface of bargain deals, a potential threat to customer's data privacy lurks.

Cybersecurity expert Susan McLean recently voiced her concerns on Sunrise, highlighting the inherent risks associated with online shopping.


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Online shopping platform Temu has been a go-to for affordable goods, but it’s being questioned by experts for their cybersecurity policies. Image Credit: Temu Australia


'We know that Temu is collecting a lot of data,' McLean stated.

'But the problem is people simply download the app and click “I accept” without understanding what they're actually accepting.'

With the excitement of a new shopping avenue overshadowing the need to read the fine print, this is a common pitfall.


The issue, however, is not just about data collection.

McLean also pointed out the annoyance of being inundated with follow-up emails after making a purchase, a tactic used to keep customers engaged and potentially lead to further spending.

Graham Cooke, Head of Consumer Research at Finder, added another layer of caution, advising shoppers to be wary of the quality of off-brand merchandise sold on Temu.

Products may look similar to leading brands but often fall short in performance.

He used headphones and smartwatches as examples, where the items may appear identical to established brands but may lack sound quality, battery life, or compatibility with common operating systems.

Cooke also warned against the 'urgency' trap, where platforms create a false sense of scarcity and time pressure to encourage impulsive purchases.

This ‘gamification’ of shopping, he said, can be persuasive and could lead to regrettable decisions.


In response to these concerns, a Temu spokesperson has stated that it does not sell customer data and that its data practices are ‘in line with industry standards’.

‘At Temu, we prioritise the protection of privacy and are transparent about our data practices,’ they said.

‘Temu collects information for the sole purpose of providing and enhancing its e-commerce service to users. Temu does not ask for system permissions to access things like your photos, contacts, or location. Temu does not share financial data with vendors.’

Temu also maintains that it works with its online marketplace vendors to ensure accurate product descriptions.

They also implement a comprehensive system to identify and remove non-compliant products.

Despite these assurances, consumers must stay informed and cautious.


Here are some tips to help you stay safe while enjoying the benefits of online shopping:

  1. Read the Privacy Policy: Take the time to understand what data they are collecting and its possible use.
  2. Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements for unauthorised transactions.
  3. Use Strong Passwords: Keep your accounts protected with strong, unique passwords.
  4. Be Sceptical of Urgency: Do not let time-limited offers pressure you into making quick decisions.
  5. Check Reviews: Look for reviews and feedback from other customers about product quality and their shopping experience.
Key Takeaways

  • Cybersecurity experts have warned that online budget retailer Temu could be risking customers' data security.
  • The parent company PDD Holdings, now headquartered in Ireland, has a large user base with 1.2 million Australians using the app monthly.
  • Shoppers are advised to be cautious of the 'urgency trap' and to be aware of the quality of off-brand products that do not match leading brands' performance.
  • Temu insists that customer data is safe and their data practices align with industry standards, promising transparency and a commitment to privacy protection.
Have you used Temu or other online shopping platforms? What precautions do you take to ensure your online safety? Share your insights in the comments below.
 
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I have only used Temu twice, the first the clothes were good. I got a 2nd delivery last week and one of the items is so poorly made, but what can you expect for the price. I dont' use this platform very often and would use more well known stores for most things.
you get free return so use it and not complain. you could be told to just keep the item and get a refund as I did once.
 
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I to use TEMU and have been for over a years After speaking to friends they agree that it is so easy to do compulsory buying
 
Better products than Kmart and Big W. The service has been amazing so far and there have been no stuff ups with my orders. I was advised to use the web site instead of the app which I have done. It's without a doubt the best online shopping site I have used and the prices are unbeatable to any other online shops. I have never heard one complaint about Temu other than too many emails, in which you can simply unsubscribe to further emails. I have also received many free items as well. No complaints here.
 
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It sounds a lot like the popularity of Temu is making merchants who rip us off a little worried. Keeping safe is not rocket science … use the website and not the app! I am very happy with the things I have bought from Temu … nothing at all wrong with the quality.
Me too I have bought a lot of woodworking equipment at a fraction of the price of USA and they are top quality its no different to the sixties when anything from Japan was cheep it's because wages are still low in China but the quality is there
It sounds a lot like the opularity of Temu is making merchants who rip us off a little worried. Keeping safe is not rocket science … use the website and not the app! I am very happy with the things I have bought from Temu … nothing at all wrong with the quality.
 
I’ve been repeatedly warned about Temu, looks like it has taken over the world and people are happy about it. So be it, I don’t need much and will not go there. Very surprised about all the positive comments which is good!
 
I have only used Temu twice, the first the clothes were good. I got a 2nd delivery last week and one of the items is so poorly made, but what can you expect for the price. I dont' use this platform very often and would use more well known stores for most things.
Just give them a low star rating. They will have the money back in your account or you can get Temu credit.
 
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When I was told I had to buy a minimum of $45 I spoke with the bot which pops up and said I wouldn't be buying from them again due to the minimum spend well they instantly wiped the minimum and now I spend just the amount I want to spend. Don't let them dictate to you what you want to spend. I have bought elastic (which is good quality) from Temu as well as other things some are good and some are just okay.
I did the same, the minimum spend was getting higher and higher, so started buying silly things I didn't want, just to get what I wanted. Algud now.
 
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When I was told I had to buy a minimum of $45 I spoke with the bot which pops up and said I wouldn't be buying from them again due to the minimum spend well they instantly wiped the minimum and now I spend just the amount I want to spend. Don't let them dictate to you what you want to spend. I have bought elastic (which is good quality) from Temu as well as other things some are good and some are just okay.
Thanks for the hint. My minimum spend recently went up to $35.00. I will follow your advice.
Am very happy with the clothes
I bought from Temu, along with many other things
I don't know why they are picking on Temu, every website has your data, including our own government.
 
Aren’t they owned by communist China ? I haven’t used them but I do use Shein which is very similar I think, and have found their prices great and they have everything under the sun !
 
The issue of Temu getting our private information is ongoing but in reality China already has as much information as they want through anything we use on the internet already. There is so many sites that companies use that we are unaware that they are Chinese owned but I will continue to use Temu as I can't afford to buy locally made.
 
Have not had one problem with temu. EVERY site collects data. Microsoft is virtually owned by the Chinese communist party govt these days. Im far more concerned about google and social media data collection.
 

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