Vinted is facing a controversy that has rocked the platform. For several days, investigations have revealed that sellers are posting fake ads solely to redirect users to adult content.
As she announced in the media and on a post on X , the High Commissioner for Children, Sarah El Haïry , has thus contacted Arcom after noting that active profiles were using Vinted as a showcase for OnlyFans , Mym or private messaging accounts.
This practice,
already identified on other platforms , raises questions about the control mechanisms implemented by digital giants…
The mechanisms revealed are now well known: sellers post ads for clothing or everyday items, particularly lingerie or swimwear . But behind these images are actually invitations to visit adult accounts.
Even worse, AI-generated images are being used as leverage here, with highly suggestive poses designed to grab attention. According to an article in L’Informé , simply using a few specific keywords is enough to access these manipulated posts.
The process also relies on links that are difficult to trace, particularly through aggregators like Linktree that mask the platforms hosting explicit content. This pattern, already observed on TikTok and Instagram, complicates automated detection.
For Sarah El Haïry, the risk is clear: these ads provide a platform for predators who use everyday objects as a gateway to pornographic content . She also points out that despite a ban on minors in the terms of service, Vinted does not perform any age verification during registration.
Vinted claims to apply a strict policy
Faced with criticism, the platform defends its position. Contacted by AFP , Vinted asserts that it applies a ” zero tolerance ” policy towards sexually explicit messages. The company claims to use proactive detection tools designed to identify suspicious behavior and inappropriate comments , with sanctions ranging up to permanent exclusion.
The start-up nevertheless acknowledges taking the matter very seriously, aware of the increasing number of attempts to circumvent its rules, especially since this case comes after a scandal surrounding Shein .
For the French authorities, the issue is clear: online services must guarantee a safer environment , especially for younger users, particularly as circumvention strategies become increasingly sophisticated…