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‘Congressional representatives demand clarification on potential safety hazards.’
Internet retailers are facing scrutiny over their handling of recalled products as the House Energy and Commerce Committee takes action. In letters sent to Amazon, Ebay, Meta, Walmart, and other online shopping platforms, the committee seeks information about their efforts to prevent the sale of recalled and banned goods on their sites. Of particular concern is Meta’s alleged failure to halt the sale of two recalled child products, the Fisher-Price Rock ‘n Play sleeper and Boppy Newborn Lounger, on Facebook Marketplace.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued recalls for the Rock ‘n Play in 2019 and the Newborn Lounger in 2021. However, the CPSC reports that the rate of takedown requests, averaging 1,000 per month, remains unchanged. Additionally, there has been a lack of “proactive measures” to prevent sales. The Rock ‘n Play has been associated with approximately 100 infant deaths. Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers and other members of Congress are concerned that online marketplaces may be placing children and users at risk by not taking sufficient action to prevent these sales.
The committee is requesting that the companies outline their current efforts to block the sale of recalled products, including the allocation of dedicated staff. The politicians are also seeking information on the companies’ future plans and any legal uncertainties they face in addressing this issue. The letters inquire whether the companies are willing to collaborate with the committee to find a solution. The companies have been given until August 31st to respond.
In response to the allegations, a Meta spokesperson stated to Engadget that the sale of recalled goods is not exclusive to Facebook Marketplace. The spokesperson emphasized that Meta takes this issue seriously and removes listings that violate its rules. Ebay, on the other hand, informed Engadget that it takes recalls seriously and employs a combination of artificial intelligence and investigators to identify potentially unsafe listings. Ebay expressed its willingness to work with the House Committee on addressing these concerns.
These inquiries coincide with Amazon facing a potential antitrust lawsuit over its sales practices and increasing scrutiny of tech giants’ conduct. Meta has also been scaling back some of its shopping features, including the discontinuation of live shopping on Facebook and Instagram. Although these closures are part of cost-cutting measures, they leave the company’s remaining commerce initiatives in a precarious position.
Update 8/22 5PM ET: The article has been updated to include a statement from Ebay.