Experts Warn Against Using Temu App on Smartphones

Despite its iconic status in fast fashion, the app poses no critical security risks or solid evidence of unauthorized surveillance. However, can we truly trust it?

Temu App Under Cybersecurity Scrutiny

The fast fashion icon Temu app was thoroughly examined by the Swiss National Testing Institute for Cybersecurity (NTC). Although no “critical security risks or concrete evidence of unauthorized surveillance” were found, the app did exhibit some “technical anomalies.”

Temu’s Red Flags

Cybersecurity experts have identified certain “red flags” within the app that merit attention. These concerns include:

• The app’s ability to modify itself without user-approved updates
• Encryption that, while intended to protect data, could potentially hide undesired data exchanges

These “features”, while not inherently malicious, complicate the comprehensive evaluation of the app.

Recommended Caution

Despite the lack of evidence of malicious activity, the NTC advises a cautious approach to using Temu, especially in a professional and institutional context. They recommend:

• Limiting app permissions
• Regularly updating the operating system
• Considering an alternative usage through a web browser to minimize attack vectors

Note that Temu is operated by the Chinese company PDD Holdings Inc., and is subject to Chinese legislation, which is considered inadequate in terms of data protection from a European perspective.

A Mixed Review

While Temu app does not pose critical security risks, the presence of technical anomalies and red flags warrants caution. Thoughtful use and increased vigilance are advised when engaging with new fast fashion applications like Temu.