TikTok says they have “zero tolerance” towards selling illegal and dangerous products to their users, at least in the speech. But, in practice, the thing is totally different. A scandal broke out against the social media platform of Chinese origin, on which counterfeit cosmetics and prescription skin creams are sold. And you might be in danger of purchasing this dangerous merchandises.
TikTok Shop is an in-app shopping feature that enables users to buy products promoted by influencers and brands. In addition, there is a “store” tab where users can browse a wide range of products, including cosmetics, clothing, toilet paper rolls, and sports drinks. Right there is where this is happening, and there are fingers pointing at TikTok.
Is TikTok Actually Restricting the Sell of Illegal Products?
Since its launch in 2021, TikTok Shop has transformed TikTok into a favored destination for online shopping, according to a recent market research study. The investigation revealed that users under 26 y/o in the UK made an average of 19 purchases annually on the platform, which was more than what they made on Instagram or Facebook.
TikTok Shop cuts a 5% commission on all sales and claims to have strict standards on the products allowed on the platform. Allegedly, TikTok Shop prohibits the advertising and sale of counterfeit goods, prescription-only medicines such as acne skin creams, and skin-whitening creams that contain prohibited components. The platform’s policy emphasizes the significance of guaranteeing the safety and authenticity of products sold on the platform, as this assures users of a reliable and positive shopping experience.
However, critics say the rules are not being rigorously enforced as they should be, leaving some vendors to trade in illegal products and goods. For example, if you search for ”perfume” on the TikTok Shop, several of the results that come up are “alternative” versions, a euphemism to say that it is a fake version of a brand name such as Dior or Carolina Herrera. The products included “versions” of Dior’s Sauvage perfume, with fictional names such as “Suave” and “Savage”, and a copy of Viktor and Rolf’s Flowerbomb perfume, which looks exactly the same, but is branded as “Mark and Victor”.
The Risk of Buying Fake Products at TikTok Shop and Self-Medicating Yourself
Introducing three new fake fragrances from TikTok Shop: “Chanell nº6”, “Shalimart” and “J’Adorééé”. Who needs the real thing when you can have a knock-off that’s almost the same? Well, except for the fact that it’s completely fake and potentially dangerous.
Well, it’s a huge problem for the brands themselves. Chanel, Guerlain, and Dior spend millions of dollars on research and development, testing, and marketing to create their signature fragrances. But the real danger lies in the potential risks to the consumer. Counterfeit fragrances are often made with cheap, unregulated chemicals that can cause serious skin irritation or even allergic reactions. Some counterfeit fragrances have even been found to contain harmful substances like lead, arsenic, and cyanide. Yikes.
Regarding the prescription drugs, it’s illegal in the United States and many other countries to buy them without a valid prescription. it is a federal offense, and for good reason. Prescription drugs are powerful medications that can have serious side effects, interactions, and risks when not taken under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional.
But legality aside, self-diagnosing and self-medicating can be downright dangerous. Without the proper training and expertise, you could easily misdiagnose yourself, leading to potentially harmful treatment and delay in getting the proper medical attention you need.