Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin has filed a lawsuit against Temu and its parent company, PDD Holdings, alleging that the popular Chinese shopping app is secretly operating as spyware. The lawsuit accuses Temu of engaging in “deceptive trade practices” through its data-collection policies.
Key allegations
- Griffin claims Temu is “functionally malware and spyware” designed to gain unrestricted access to users’ phone operating systems.
- The app allegedly can override data privacy settings and monetize unauthorized data collection.
- The lawsuit cites past incidents involving PDD’s Pinduoduo app being suspended by Google for containing malware, and Temu’s temporary removal from Apple’s App Store for violating privacy rules.
While the lawsuit doesn’t provide direct evidence of spying, it references concerns from third-party groups, including a short-selling firm, about the extensive range of data Temu can allegedly collect.
Chinese Government concerns
Griffin expresses worry that Temu, allegedly led by former Chinese Communist Party officials, poses “significant security risks” to the US. He suggests the Chinese government could potentially force Temu to secretly spy on Americans.
These allegations echo similar concerns raised about TikTok, which led to a US law passed in April to potentially ban the app over Chinese spying fears.
Lawsuit demands
The Arkansas lawsuit demands that Temu cease data collection and pay civil penalties. Some Republican lawmakers have called for a federal investigation and potential ban on Temu, citing concerns about forced labor and intellectual property theft.
Temu’s response
Temu has denied the allegations, stating the lawsuit is based on “misinformation circulated online” and lacks independent fact-finding. A company spokesperson told Fox Business that they will “vigorously defend” themselves against these claims.
As this legal battle unfolds, it highlights the growing scrutiny of Chinese-owned apps in the US market and the complex issues surrounding data privacy, national security, and international relations in the digital age.
