Seoul, South Korea – Chinese e-commerce platform Temu has updated its privacy policy in South Korea, explicitly stating that users who refuse to consent to the transfer of their personal information will be unable to access the platform’s services. The move has raised concerns about data privacy and the extent of information Temu collects from its users.
According to the updated policy, effective February 21st, Temu states that it entrusts domestic and foreign third-party companies to process (Korean users’) personal information in order to effectively provide services. The policy further clarifies that if you refuse to transfer personal information abroad, you will not be able to use the service.
This update expands the scope of required information compared to the previous policy, which only mandated consent for cross-border remittance related information. Now, Temu requires users to agree to the processing of a wide range of personal data, including:
- Personal customs clearance numbers
- Transaction amounts
- Addresses
- Phone numbers
- Text messages
- Device information
- Identification document information
In essence, users must now consent to the processing of a significant portion of their personal information to utilize Temu’s services in South Korea.
Furthermore, the updated policy reveals that Temu shares user data with 27 companies located in South Korea, the United States, and potentially other regions.
This policy change is likely to draw scrutiny from South Korean regulators and privacy advocates, who are increasingly vigilant about the data practices of foreign e-commerce platforms. The requirement to consent to extensive data transfers as a condition of service raises questions about user autonomy and the potential risks associated with sharing personal information with numerous third-party entities.
The situation highlights the growing global debate surrounding data privacy and the responsibilities of companies operating across international borders. As e-commerce continues to expand, ensuring transparency and user control over personal data will be crucial for maintaining trust and fostering a secure online environment.
References:
- Yonhap News Agency. (2024, February 21). 详讯：Temu明示拒绝个人信息转移时无法利用服务 [Detailed report: Temu clearly states that services cannot be used if personal information transfer is rejected]. Retrieved from [Insert URL of Yonhap News Article Here – if available online]
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