Shein under EU investigation over childlike sex dolls

The European Union (EU) has launched a formal investigation into Shein over potential violations of the Digital Services Act (DSA). The investigation, initiated by the European Commission (EC), will examine Shein's systems for preventing the sale of illegal products, including items that could constitute child sexual abuse material, following reports of childlike sex dolls being sold on the platform. The EU will also scrutinize the platform's "addictive design," gamification tactics, and the transparency of its product recommendation algorithms. The EC is concerned about the potential risks to users and the opacity of the algorithms that drive product suggestions. Shein has stated it is cooperating with the investigation and is committed to protecting minors and removing harmful content.

The European Commission launched an investigation into Shein in February 2026 under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The probe focuses on Shein's internal systems and potential systemic risks to consumers across the EU, specifically regarding the sale of illicit goods like child-like sex dolls and weapons. This action follows an uproar in France after the discovery of such items on Shein's website in November. The Commission suspects Shein's platform may not adequately prevent the circulation of illegal products or protect minors from inappropriate content. Shein, based in Singapore, stated it will cooperate with the investigation and shares the goal of a safe online environment.

The EU has launched a formal investigation into Shein over suspected breaches of European laws, including the sale of illegal products like childlike sex dolls and weapons. Initiated after the EU requested information from Shein last year, the inquiry will examine Shein's service design, specifically its potential for addiction through bonus programs and gamification, and its recommender systems. The EU suspects Shein's systems are not effectively preventing the sale of illegal items and that its recommender systems lack transparency, potentially violating the Digital Services Act. This follows a similar investigation into Temu and concerns raised by the French government regarding illegal products on Shein's platform, which led to calls for stricter controls.