Second-hand resale platform Vinted has launched a campaign to identify and delete listings featuring items suspected of being stolen during recent civil unrest in France. Following a wave of violence over the weekend, the company confirmed it is actively monitoring its site to prevent the sale of illicit merchandise.
A Vinted spokesperson stated that the sale or solicitation of stolen property is strictly forbidden, noting a zero-tolerance policy. The company confirmed its teams have ramped up monitoring for suspicious activity and warned that any users caught violating these terms face consequences up to and including permanent account bans. We act against the accounts involved, up to permanent bans, when our rules are breached.
To combat the issue, Vinted is coordinating directly with French police and national authorities to adapt its detection processes against malicious behavior.
While Vinted takes these steps, rival platform eBay reported no significant spike in problematic listings in France, though it emphasized that it works alongside law enforcement to remove items once officials confirm their stolen status.
The looting occurred across major cities, including Paris, Marseille, and Lille, following protests over public spending and the rising cost of living. These demonstrations escalated into riots, resulting in at least 1,200 arrests and widespread property destruction. Those that stole goods now appear to be looking to sell them on fast.
Alain Di Crescenzo, head of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry, stated that the violence impacted over 2,000 businesses, estimating the total damages to reach into the hundreds of millions of euros. Rioters, some disguised with masks and balaclavas, were observed setting fires and ransacking storefronts.
High-end retailers in the French capital, including Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Rolex, suffered significant shopfront damage. Reuters reported that many boutiques at the Place Vendome were forced to shut down and rely on security guards for protection.
The impact extended to the sports sector, with football club Olympique de Marseille reporting that its flagship store on the city’s main avenue was looted. Consequently, the club has shuttered the location. Fellow Ligue 1 side Lille also confirmed its club shop will remain closed until further notice as a precaution.
In response to the chaos, the French Prime Minister has condemned the individuals involved as thugs and thieves, calling for the implementation of partial curfews to restore order.
