Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has filed a lawsuit against a popular shopping app, alleging it steals user data and puts Arizona residents at risk.
Mayes announced the lawsuit during a press conference on Tuesday, claiming Temu violates Arizona's Consumer Fraud Act by collecting sensitive data without permission and counterfeiting brands.
Watch the full press conference in the video player below:
The lawsuit alleges the Chinese-owned app can infect user devices with malware to steal private information without consent.
Mayes warns that behind Temu's low prices and advertising, there is real danger for Arizona consumers, including minors.
Temu, which offers ultra-low prices to buyers, handles tens of millions of shipments to the U.S. each year through more than 80,000 China-based sellers. It was the most downloaded app last year, the attorney general's office says.
A Temu spokesperson shared the following statement about the allegations:
"Temu denies the allegations in the lawsuit and will defend itself vigorously.
We help consumers and families access quality products at affordable prices. We work to keep costs down and maintain reliable supply so people can meet their needs without stretching their budgets.
We also create growth opportunities for businesses by offering a low-cost alternative to traditional gatekeepers. By providing another route to market, we return power and choice to local players, small and medium-sized businesses, and consumers.
We remain focused on delivering tangible savings to consumers and creating value for sellers."
