Shein to Implement Age Checks in EU Following Sex Dolls Scandal. Shein has announced plans to introduce age-assurance tools across the EU to prevent underage users from accessing inappropriate products. The move comes after a scandal in November where Shein faced backlash over the sale of sex dolls, prompting EU regulators to demand clarity on the platform’s age-verification practices. Shein’s General Counsel, Zhu Yinan, revealed the company is deploying a third-party solution for age verification, which will be implemented on a country-by-country basis. Age-restricted products will be placed behind the newly introduced age-checking system, ensuring that only users of the appropriate age can access them. The European Commission, overseeing Shein under the Digital Services Act, has the authority to fine the company up to 6% of its annual global revenue for non-compliance. Shein is also testing the EU Commission’s age-verification app, called the mini wallet, currently being trialed in six EU countries to improve age-check accuracy. Zhu admitted that the sale of child-like sex dolls and other illicit content was "unacceptable" but pointed out that such incidents have occurred across multiple online marketplaces. The company’s steps to address regulatory concerns highlight the growing scrutiny of online platforms under the Digital Services Act as the EU pushes for better protection against harmful content.