Platform Denies Allegations of Child Information in Toy Sale Posts

Allegations have surfaced that child physical information was included in toy sale posts on the European second-hand trading app 'Vinted.' French investigative authorities have launched an inquiry. The controversy began when users discovered and reported detailed descriptions of children's ages, appearances, and personalities in toy sale listings. Related screenshots circulated on social media platforms like TikTok, bringing the issue to public attention.

One sales post described a stuffed animal using phrases like 'a 3-year-old girl, 91cm tall,' and 'a well-behaved child with blond hair and blue eyes.' Another post described a 13-year-old child's personality and listed a high price.

Vinted stated that its own investigation found no evidence linking the posts to child trafficking. Vinted explained that the ages listed in the posts refer to the recommended age for the toys, and high prices were set to reflect collection value or to encourage negotiation.

This is not the first time Vinted has been embroiled in suspicions of illicit transactions. In the past, rumors circulated that high-priced second-hand children's clothing sales were a front for child sex trafficking rings, and French authorities investigated reports of some sellers offering sexual content using items like swimwear and lingerie. Sarah El Haïry, France's High Commissioner for Children, has urged a thorough investigation. While Vinted denies finding evidence, investigative authorities are proceeding to verify the facts.