EU opens formal probe into Shein over childlike dolls and platform design

The European Commission has launched a formal investigation into Shein to assess potential Digital Services Act breaches, including the sale of childlike sex dolls, the platform’s addictive design, and the transparency of its recommender systems. The EC notes possible enforcement steps and penalties up to 6% of global sales, while Shein says it is strengthening compliance and protections for younger users and has cooperated with authorities amid prior France-related inquiries.