While the Chinese e-commerce platform focuses on data security, industry certifications, and compliance, it aims to earn the trust of Moroccan consumers while dominating the online market with its low prices and viral popularity.
In the heat of the debate caused by its stormy rise and ultra-low prices, the Chinese e-commerce platform Temu has provided an exclusive detailed statement to Morocco World News (MWN) addressing recent controversies and concerns about its activities in the Moroccan market since its launch earlier this year. In the statement, Temu emphasized its commitment to protecting user privacy as a core principle. “We are transparent about how we use data to run our platform and improve the user experience,” the spokesperson added.
The company stated that it collects the minimum information necessary to manage orders, provide services, communicate with users, and personalize the shopping experience. Temu emphasized that its data practices are in line with industry standards, noting that it actually collects less user information compared to competitors like Amazon. They also highlighted that their approach to data deletion and retention complies with legal requirements and standard industry procedures, citing similar policies from Amazon and Etsy. Additionally, Temu clarified that it does not request system permissions to access sensitive data such as photos, contacts, or location, except in the Middle East, where precise location is needed for shipping due to the lack of a comprehensive address system. The company assured that it does not sell customer data or share payment information with merchants or logistics partners.
To further demonstrate their commitment to data security, Temu revealed to MWN that it has received the Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA) certification after an evaluation by DEKRA, the world’s largest independent expert testing organization. The certification process included a detailed examination of their app’s data processing, encryption practices, authentication mechanisms, and compliance with standard industry protections for privacy.
Temu also implemented two-factor authentication (2FA) and launched a bug bounty program on HackerOne to improve platform security. Additionally, the company recently joined the Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG), an association of over 2,300 companies fighting fraudsters and cybercrime. In response to concerns raised by consumer organizations such as the European Consumer Organization (BEUC) about Temu’s practices, the company reiterated its commitment to full compliance with laws and regulations in the markets where it operates. Temu highlighted recent actions it has taken, including filing a cease and desist order in Germany and signing a product safety agreement in South Korea to demonstrate its commitment to compliance and consumer safety.
While some local wholesalers mentioned in the original article believed that Temu could boost e-commerce in Morocco by making more consumers familiar with online shopping, others were concerned that the app’s extremely low prices could severely impact traditional retailers. Temu’s statement did not directly address these concerns about the potential disruption of the retail sector.
Regarding app permissions, Temu clarified that it is committed to transparency and minimal use of permissions. The company explained that when using photos for features such as reviews, it does not directly access the camera but instead delegates tasks to the phone’s built-in camera and gallery apps to ensure user privacy. As for product quality and customer service, areas of concern for Moroccan shoppers trying out the platform, Temu encouraged users to carefully review item details and seller ratings before making a purchase. The company also offers a purchase protection program that provides refunds in certain cases and has a customer service team to handle order issues and inquiries.
As Temu’s rapid growth in Morocco continues, the company says it remains committed to working with stakeholders to prioritize consumer safety and address any service shortcomings. “We keep the interests of consumers at heart and strive to provide a safe and reliable service that consumers value and that adds significant value,” the spokesperson told MWN. How the platform’s rise will ultimately impact Morocco’s e-commerce landscape remains to be seen, but Temu seems poised to remain a key player while addressing concerns surrounding its rapid rise.
MOROCCO WORLD NEWS
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