Vinted has released a statement asserting there is currently "no credible evidence" of human trafficking on its platform, following viral social media posts that alleged the secondhand fashion marketplace was being used to "sell" children through coded listings. The Lithuania-based company responded after French police launched an investigation into disturbing advertisements for toys at exorbitant prices, described with sexually suggestive language.
Viral Listings Prompt Police Action
Users on Vinted reported strange resale listings for toys priced unusually high, accompanied by descriptions that appeared to reference children. One advert offered a "bunny stuffed animal" for €1,000 (£865), describing the item as a three-year-old female weighing two stone (12kg) and measuring 91cm, with attributes such as "small, blonde, blue-eyed and obedient." Another listing featured an Etch A Sketch toy at €6,000 (£5,180) with sexualised language, describing the item as "13, shy, anxious and noisy." These posts went viral, prompting Sarah El Haïry, France’s high commissioner for children, to flag them to authorities.
Official Responses and Investigations
Ms El Haïry wrote on social media: "You can never be too careful. I would rather see a strict precautionary principle applied than a single child left at the mercy of their abusers. The truth must be established without any taboos. Platforms have a responsibility: no space should be a hunting ground for predators." Police in Frankfurt, Germany, also confirmed they are investigating, stating in an Instagram post: "We take these reports very seriously. We are also aware of the emotional reactions and anxieties such descriptions can trigger."
Vinted's Statement and Fact-Checking
Vinted issued a statement on its website confirming an internal investigation. "German police and independent fact-checker Mimikama have found no credible evidence of child trafficking on Vinted. We have thoroughly investigated the listings currently being shared online and share this conclusion," the statement read, adding that the listings likely refer to the age group for which the toy is intended, not an actual child. Frankfurt police echoed this, noting "strong indications that these are fake ads." Both Mimikama, an Austrian fact-checking site, and Snopes in the US supported the claim that no credible listings had been uncovered.
Ongoing Investigations and Historical Context
Despite the lack of evidence, French and German law enforcement said the claims are being investigated to "rule out any danger or criminal activity." Vinted added: "We want everyone to feel safe on Vinted. We take action every time we become aware of a suspicious listing - both through our own detection tools and via reports from members - and we review every case carefully. If a listing or a member's behaviour goes against our rules, we have a number of procedures in place; this may include banning accounts and carrying out further investigation. We encourage anyone who sees a listing that concerns them to report it directly so we can review it." In 2023, similar rumours circulated online accusing Vinted of harbouring a child sex trafficking ring via used children's clothing listed at high prices. Last year, France also launched an inquiry after users reported sellers promoting OnlyFans pages or selling sexually explicit content through listings for swimwear or lingerie.
