EU Launches Investigation into Shein's Design Practices Amid Child Exploitation Concerns

The European Commission has launched a formal investigation into Chinese online fashion retailer Shein, focusing on its content recommendation systems and “addictive design” features that may be exploited by malicious actors to spread child sexual abuse material. French regulators had previously uncovered listings for “child-like sex dolls” on the platform. The investigation aims to assess compliance with the EU’s Digital Services Act, which requires platforms to prevent illegal products from being sold on their sites.