Mis-led and ripped off: Why Patricia’s done with Temu

Online shopping has never been easier… or riskier. 

With low prices, flashy deals, and endless convenience, platforms like Temu and Shein have exploded in popularity. But beneath the surface of seamless clicks and instant gratification lies a growing number of consumer complaints. From misleading product images to unexpected charges and poor customer service, the experience isn’t always as smooth as it seems.

While bargain-hunting can be tempting, it often comes with a hidden cost. Patricia reached out to us with a firsthand account that highlights the real frustrations many shoppers face when trusting platforms that don’t always prioritize transparency or accountability.

This is Patricia’s story…

I’ve had quite a few frustrating experiences with Temu, and it feels like every time I try to use the platform, something goes wrong.

Most recently, I was browsing through the app, comparing items and adding things to my basket so I could weigh up my options. Before starting this latest order, I made sure to empty my basket completely. I didn’t want any confusion, so I removed everything I had previously saved. Once that was done, I started fresh – adding new items while Temu continuously bombarded me with messages saying things were “selling fast” or “almost out of stock.” It felt more like harassment than helpful updates, pushing me to check out before I was ready.

Eventually, I finalized my selection and went to place my order. That’s when things started to unravel. I received a confirmation email stating that my order had been split into three separate shipments. This was a bit annoying, but I figured it was just a logistical thing. A day or two later, I checked my email again and noticed an update from Temu. I also happened to glance at my credit card statement. That’s when I got the shock of my life.

Nearly £300 had been charged to my card. When I looked closer, I realized Temu had somehow resurrected every single item I had deleted from my basket earlier. These weren’t part of my final order. They had been removed, on purpose, yet here they were, processed, charged, and marked as shipped.

“…I can’t afford to keep throwing cash into a black hole.”

Trying to contact customer service was its own nightmare. In the past, I had returned items to Temu and never received a refund, so I’ve become extremely hesitant to send anything back. I don’t trust that I’ll see my money again, and I can’t afford to keep throwing cash into a black hole.

On top of being charged for things I didn’t want and had already deleted, there’s the issue of how misleading some of their product listings are. For example, I ordered what I thought was a full-sized squirrel feeder. The photo clearly showed a regular-sized squirrel happily using it so I expected something practical. What I received, however, was laughable. The actual item was tiny – about 3×2 inches. A squirrel would need to be the size of a mouse to fit on it. It was completely useless! 

This isn’t just a one-off issue either. The way some products are marketed is beyond ridiculous.

All in all, shopping with Temu has been a series of disappointments: wrong charges, poor communication, deceptive product images, and a customer service process that feels intentionally difficult. It’s left me feeling like the whole experience is more hassle than it’s worth.

Why Temu should make you think twice

Temu and similar platforms promise affordability and convenience, but as this experience shows, the reality can be far more complicated. Hidden charges, resurrected orders, misleading product photos, and poor customer service all point to a system that puts pressure on consumers while offering little in the way of protection or accountability.

For online shoppers, the lesson is clear: always proceed with caution. Double-check your cart, monitor your statements, and be wary of product prices and other offers that seem too-good-to-be-true. The appeal of low prices shouldn’t come at the cost of trust or financial peace of mind. Sometimes, saving a few pounds upfront can lead to a much bigger headache in the end.

For advice on changing your shopping habits see our article on long read article on online shopping and compulsive consumption 

With Resolver Stories you can read real experiences of people fighting for fairness and share your own. Whether you scored a big win or are stuck in an absurd or never-ending nightmare, we want to hear from you! 

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