Temu releases content moderation report for EU Digital Services Act
Temu details content moderation practices, automated systems, and human oversight in new transparency report for EU compliance.
Whaleco Technology Limited released Temu's first transparency report on November 30, 2024, detailing who, what, when, where, why and how the e-commerce platform moderates content across its EU operations.
According to the report, Temu achieved designation as a Very Large Online Platform by the European Commission on May 31, 2024, following its launch to EU consumers in April 2023. The transparency report covers Temu's content moderation efforts from February 17, 2024, to October 31, 2024, across both its mobile app and website (www.temu.com) in EU member states.
The platform recorded approximately 93.7 million average monthly active users in the EU during the reporting period from April 1, 2024, to October 31, 2024. This significant user base underscores the importance of Temu's content moderation framework, which combines automated systems with human oversight to ensure platform safety.
Temu's moderation system employs a multi-layered approach combining advanced technology with human expertise. The platform's automated tools utilize sophisticated algorithms for text, image, and video recognition to screen content before publication. These systems analyze product listings, user reviews, and trader information against pre-established criteria for compliance and safety.
According to the report, human moderators undergo a rigorous 10-day classroom training program followed by two weeks of practical experience before beginning active content moderation. All full-time moderators must possess at least a bachelor's degree, with specialized teams including experts in intellectual property law, data science, and information technology.
The platform maintains a multilingual team of moderators fluent in various EU languages, including English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. This linguistic diversity ensures comprehensive coverage across the EU market while maintaining sensitivity to local cultural contexts.
Temu implements strict verification processes for traders, requiring detailed business documentation and contact information before allowing product listings. The platform's automated systems screen all product listings before publication, checking for compliance with safety regulations and intellectual property rights.
Automated Content Moderation Systems
The report details several key automated moderation tools:
- Review Analysis System: Scans user reviews for inappropriate content, private information, or illegal activities
- Trader Verification Tools: Validates business documentation and registration information
- Product Listing Scanner: Screens listings for prohibited items and compliance issues
- IP Protection System: Identifies potential intellectual property infringements through text and image matching
Human Oversight and Appeals
While automation plays a crucial role, Temu emphasizes the importance of human review in its moderation process. The platform maintains dedicated teams for:
- Product safety compliance
- Intellectual property protection
- User review moderation
- Trader verification
- Content policy enforcement
Support for Content Moderators
Recognizing the challenging nature of content moderation work, Temu provides:
- Regular training sessions every 1-2 weeks
- One-on-one coaching when needed
- Comprehensive reference materials
- A mentorship program
- Free psychological counseling services
Key Facts
- Launch Date in EU: April 2023
- VLOP Designation: May 31, 2024
- Reporting Period: February 17, 2024 - October 31, 2024
- Monthly Active Users: 93.7 million (EU average)
- Moderator Training: 10-day classroom + 2 weeks practical
- Languages Covered: Multiple EU languages including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish
- Content Review: Combined automated and human moderation
- Moderator Requirements: Bachelor's degree minimum for full-time staff
- Support Services: Includes psychological counseling and mentorship
- Policy Updates: Regular reviews and updates based on emerging risks
- Verification Process: Multi-step trader verification system
- Training Frequency: Bi-weekly sessions plus specialized courses
- Review Process: Pre and post-publication content screening
- Enforcement Actions: Range from warnings to permanent account closure