Is Temu spying on you? That’s the question many Nigerians are now asking after the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) launched a formal investigation into the widely used shopping app. Their concern is around alleged data protection violations. In simpler terms, is Temu spying on Nigerians?
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Why is NDPC Investigating Temu?
The probe, ordered by National Commissioner Dr. Vincent Olatunji, is investigating claims of Temu spying online, lack of transparency, weak data minimisation practices, and concerns over cross-border data transfers. Currently, their findings show Temu processes data belonging to about 12.7 million Nigerians. This fact raises the stakes in Africa’s largest internet market. 
But Nigeria isn’t the only one concerned about Temu spying allegations.
In June 2024, Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin filed a lawsuit alleging that Temu functioned as “dangerous malware.” He claimed that Temu is capable of accessing your whole phone data, including messages, contacts, and location information.
The lawsuit referenced forensic research claiming the app could bypass certain device security controls. Temu strongly denied the allegations, calling them “misinformation” and vowing to defend itself.
Also, South Africa’s National Consumer Commission (NCC) opened a similar investigation in November 2025. The investigation probed Temu’s compliance with consumer protection rules, particularly around algorithm-driven engagement and data mining.
So, Is Temu Spying on You?
Temu, owned by PDD Holdings, is a legitimate global marketplace. It uses HTTPS encryption, offers refund protections, and holds a Mobile Application Security Assessment certification.
Leaving the technical jargon aside, Temu operates like most e-commerce apps. It collects user data like your names, addresses, payment details, device information, and location data. That alone does not equal spying. It is common for online retail platforms.
The concern the regulators have is not whether Temu collects data, but how much. Also, how transparent are they about this process, and where does your data go afterward?
How to Stay Safe
Whether you use Temu or any shopping app:
- Limit app permissions in your phone settings
- Use secure payment options like PayPal or Apple Pay
- Create a strong, unique password
- Use a secondary email to reduce spam exposure
- Even though it feels like a chore, review privacy policies before signing up
Investigations are ongoing, and no court has proven that Temu spies on users. But as the world keeps searching, know that protecting your data is as important as getting that bargain.
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