Lawsuit Response by Temu: 'Founded on false information'
In a significant move, Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman has filed a lawsuit against the Chinese shopping platform Temu on July 17, 2025. The lawsuit alleges unlawful data collection, privacy violations, counterfeiting of several iconic Kentucky brands, and the use of forced labor from Chinese ethnic minorities, among other issues [1][2][3][5].
The lawsuit, filed in Woodford County Circuit Court, accuses Temu of illegally collecting users' data without their knowledge or consent, a practice that allegedly allows unfettered access of this data to the Chinese Communist government [1]. The complaint also alleges that the platform is stealing intellectual property of U.S. companies, specifically Kentucky’s well-known brands such as the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, Buffalo Trace Distillery, and Churchill Downs [1][3].
Moreover, the lawsuit raises concerns about malware, as the Temu app shares a significant portion of its code with Pinduoduo, a related app banned in the U.S. for malware, potentially putting users' devices at risk [2]. The suit also accuses Temu of advertising products falsely, with items not resembling descriptions or images and using fake customer reviews [3].
Coleman described the lawsuit as necessary to protect Kentuckians from the personal data theft and economic harm caused by Temu, including threats to local jobs and brand integrity [1][2]. This controversy highlights broader concerns about data privacy, intellectual property theft, and the role of Chinese government ties in Chinese-owned apps operating in the U.S. [2][4].
In response to the lawsuit, a Temu spokesperson issued a statement to Kentucky Today, stating that the company provides value to consumers and business owners. However, the company has not yet issued a formal response to the specific allegations in the lawsuit [1].
Temu operates on a supply chain model that aims to bring the global supply chain directly to the end consumer, creating new growth opportunities by offering a low-cost alternative to traditional gatekeepers. The platform helps businesses reach more customers and grow their sales, while committing to helping consumers and families access quality products at affordable prices [6]. Temu remains focused on delivering value to both consumers and sellers, and aims to return power and choice to local players, small- and medium-sized businesses, and consumers.
As of now, no information is available about the scheduled court hearing for the lawsuit, and the current status of the case remains unclear [1]. The statements in the Kentucky Attorney General's lawsuit against Temu are based on allegations that the company denies and will defend itself vigorously.
- The Kentucky Attorney General's lawsuit against Temu in Woodford County Circuit Court involves allegations that the Chinese shopping platform is illegally collecting users' data, an act that could potentially provide unfiltered access to this data for the Chinese Communist government.
- The lawsuit also accuses Temu of intellectual property theft, specifically involving Kentucky's well-known brands like the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, Buffalo Trace Distillery, and Churchill Downs, and of advertising products with false descriptions or images, using fake customer reviews.
- In response to the lawsuit, Temu has stated that they provide value to both consumers and business owners, but have not yet issued a formal response to the specific allegations. However, they operate on a supply chain model that aims to help businesses reach more customers and grow their sales while offering affordable prices in a low-cost alternative to traditional gatekeepers.
