EU Governments Crack Down on Online Retailers Selling "Dangerous" or "Illegal" Goods
In recent years, online retailers such as Tem, Shein, and Amazon have faced scrutiny for selling a range of products that are deemed "dangerous" or "illegal" in the European Union (EU). These products, which can include knockoff Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) certified products, counterfeit pharmaceuticals, and other illicit items, have raised concerns among regulators and consumers alike about the safety and security of online shopping in the EU.
The EU’s European Union’s Agency for Cybersecurity, ENISA, has warned that the rise of online marketplaces has led to an explosion of illegal and dangerous products being sold to EU consumers. These products can pose significant health and safety risks to consumers, as well as undermine the trust in the online retail sector as a whole.
Tem, Shein, and Amazon, three of the largest online retailers in the world, have been named repeatedly in investigations and fines for selling illegal goods. In 2020, Tem was hit with a €2.3 million fine by French authorities for selling counterfeit goods, including fake cosmetics and luxury handbags. Shein, a popular Chinese retailer, has faced similar accusations of selling counterfeit products, including fake designer clothing and accessories. Amazon, the world’s largest online retailer, has been fined multiple times for selling illegal goods, including counterfeit pharmaceuticals and other dangerous products.
The EU’s top regulatory bodies, including the European Commission and the European Consumer Protection Agency (ECP), have stepped up efforts to tackle the problem. In 2020, the European Commission launched a major crackdown on online marketplaces, initiating a series of legal actions against companies that failed to comply with EU laws and regulations.
In response to the growing concerns, online retailers have taken steps to improve their product sourcing and quality control processes. A statement from the European Commission noted that "online retailers have a responsibility to ensure that the products they sell are safe and comply with EU laws and regulations."
Consumers, too, have a key role to play in protecting themselves from the sale of dangerous and illegal goods online. Online shoppers are advised to be cautious when browsing online retailers, checking product reviews and ratings, and looking for secure payment and delivery options.
In conclusion, the sale of "dangerous" or "illegal" goods by online retailers such as Tem, Shein, and Amazon poses a significant threat to consumer safety and the trust in the online retail sector. European authorities have shown a willingness to take action, and online retailers must take concrete steps to ensure the safety and quality of products they sell. Consumers, in turn, must be vigilant and informed to protect themselves from the risks associated with online shopping.
