French police have initiated a probe into suspicions of child trafficking on the online resale platform Vinted following reports from vigilant users who highlighted a series of questionable listings containing what seemed like ‘sexually coded language.’
Images of the ‘unsettling’ listings have circulated widely on social media recently, showcasing sellers advertising toys at exorbitant prices, accompanied by descriptions hinting at a child’s age, height, weight, and characteristics.
One particular listing raised concerns, featuring a teddy bear priced at €30,000 (£25,900) with the description mentioning a “nine-year-old girl,” sparking online speculation that it could symbolize a child rather than an actual toy.
Another viral screenshot, predominantly shared on platforms like TikTok, displayed a plush rabbit offered for over €1,000 (£861) with details indicating “Female, three years old, 91cm, 13kg” and labeling the item as an “obedient girl,” terminology that social media users have found deeply troubling.
The French authorities confirmed to the Mirror that they have launched a preliminary investigation to identify the individuals behind the listings and ascertain whether they signal an attempt to misuse the platform, an orchestrated prank, or a more sinister motive.
At this stage, no definitive confirmation has been made regarding the accuracy of the allegations, and the commencement of an investigation does not imply any wrongdoing.
Additional listings circulating online allegedly exhibit similar patterns of unusually high prices combined with descriptors that seem to allude to the physical attributes or personalities of children rather than the actual items for sale.
The screenshots have rapidly spread across various platforms like TikTok, X, and Facebook, prompting a deluge of comments from users urging authorities to explore the potential links between the listings and organized criminal activities.
Sarah El Hairy, France’s High Commissioner for Childhood, has reported the existence of the concerning posts and accounts to relevant officials, emphasizing the importance of uncovering the truth without hesitation and underscoring the responsibility of platforms to prevent any predatory behavior towards children.
The posts have also been forwarded to PHAROS, the government’s platform for reporting illicit online content, to ensure appropriate oversight and intervention.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Frankfurt Police acknowledged a surge in reports but indicated that there are strong indications suggesting that these listings are likely fabricated.
Despite this, the authorities emphasized the seriousness with which they are treating the reports, reiterating their commitment to thoroughly investigating the matter to eliminate any potential risks or criminal activities.
The proliferation of these posts appears to extend beyond France, with evidence of similar questionable listings from the UK, including a bunny Jellycat listed at an exorbitant price on Vinted with details suggestive of a child’s characteristics rather than a toy.
Both the National Police Chiefs’ Council and the National Crime Agency have stated that they have no prior awareness of these listings.
Vinted has vehemently refuted claims that the listings were intended to advertise children, asserting that there is no evidence of child trafficking occurring on their platform. The company has also pointed out that some of the listings may have been falsified.
In a detailed response, Vinted stated that they have thoroughly investigated the shared listings and found no credible evidence linking them to child trafficking activities. They have also pledged to swiftly remove any deliberately falsified listings and take appropriate actions against the associated accounts.
Additionally, Vinted cautioned users that certain screenshots shared online might be fabricated to incite panic, suggesting that some individuals may be posting fake listings to expose suspected wrongdoers.
The platform highlighted instances where individuals posing as buyers have threatened sellers with police involvement, leading to increased abusive behavior towards legitimate sellers of high-value items. Vinted emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and affirmed that they would take decisive action against rule violators.
Vinted assured full cooperation with law enforcement and conducted a comprehensive review of the circulating listings to address any potential risks effectively.
The unfolding allegations have drawn parallels with the “Wayfair conspiracy,” a previous online phenomenon where unfounded claims about child trafficking were linked to a furniture retailer, underscoring the need for caution and thorough scrutiny in such sensitive matters.