Chinese fast fashion retailer Shein is being sued for aggressive copyright infringement,

 

Chinese fast fashion retailer Shein is being sued for aggressive copyright infringement, which the plaintiffs claim amounts to racketeering.  The lawsuit accuses Shein of using a "design algorithm" that generates unauthorized copycat works, posing a threat to designers' careers. The plaintiffs, Krista Perry, Larissa Martinez, and Jay Baron, argue that Shein's automated design process and algorithmic operation actively promote the unauthorized use of creative works. Shein's AI is advanced enough to "misappropriate the pieces with the greatest commercial potential," their complaint states. The lawsuit further alleges that Shein employs complex algorithms and third-party vendors to evade accountability for the copyright infringement. The plaintiffs are seeking damages under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). As noted by TechCrunch, Shein's exact use of AI during the design process remains unclear. The company denies the allegations and said it takes claims of infringement seriously.