Vinted, a second-hand online retailer founded in Lithuania in 2008, has been fined nearly 2.4 million euros for data protection violations by the Consumer Protection Agency in Lithuania. Despite this, the company has stated that it will not take any action against the decision.
Vinted boasts over 100 million customers worldwide and allows users to buy and sell used clothing and shoes. A significant market for Vinted is France, where customers have been complaining to the French Consumer Protection Authority CNIL since 2020 that the platform does not delete their data upon request. Similar complaints have been made by consumer protection authorities in Poland, the Netherlands, and Germany.
In addition to data protection violations, Vinted has also faced accusations of hidden costs in orders. Under pressure from the EU Commission, the platform has committed to displaying the total price including any additional fees. This move comes as part of efforts to increase transparency and protect consumers.
Despite these challenges, Vinted remains a popular platform for buying and selling second-hand items. The company’s global reach and large customer base demonstrate the appeal of sustainable fashion and the circular economy. While facing regulatory scrutiny and consumer complaints, Vinted remains a go-to platform for those looking to shop sustainably and affordably.
