Archive · 6 Jun 2025
Shein Faces EU Complaint Over Dark Patterns, Echoing India
The pan-European consumer organization BEUC is accusing the fast-fashion company Shein of using tricky design tactics to make people spend more money on their app and website.
These tactics, like pop-ups and countdown timers, are called "dark patterns".
BEUC says Shein is doing the same things the Indian government is trying to stop e-commerce companies from doing.
Shein says it's working with authorities to follow EU rules.
BEUC is also looking into other clothing companies using similar tactics, as this is a growing concern in digital commerce.
BEUC accused Shein of using "dark patterns" to manipulate shoppers.
These tactics include pop-ups, countdown timers, and excessive notifications.
The complaint mirrors the Indian government's efforts to regulate e-commerce.
Shein stated it is working with authorities to comply with EU laws.
The EU is scrutinizing Shein and other retailers for potential violations.
- Who
- BEUC, Shein, Indian government
- What
- Complaint against Shein for using "dark patterns"
- When
- Recently
- Where
- Europe, India
- Why
- To address concerns about manipulative online tactics.
- Organization Filing Complaint
- BEUC
- Accused Company
- Shein
- Complaint Filed In
- Europe
- Issue
- Use of "dark patterns"
- Dark Pattern Examples
- Pop-ups, countdown timers, infinite scroll
- Similar action in
- India