A single offensive product image can instantly drive away potential customers and negatively impact brand perception. To maintain a positive shopping environment and enhance user experience, a major e-commerce platform will implement a new product image screening mechanism starting December 15.
The system will automatically flag potentially disturbing or emotionally negative visual content, with particular focus on categories including cosmetics, health products, daily chemicals, sports nutrition, and pet medications. These product types often involve personal health and hygiene matters where inappropriate imagery could easily cause user discomfort.
Content Screening Standards
The platform has established clear guidelines for acceptable product imagery:
- Prohibited content: Graphic depictions of physiological issues, unsanitary usage or storage conditions, exaggerated "before-and-after" comparison images, and excessive displays of insects or other disturbing organisms.
- Permitted content: Medical illustrations without exaggerated processing, normal displays of minor skin imperfections, and insects used as design elements (such as clothing patterns or packaging decorations).
Impact on Merchants
Merchants whose primary product images are flagged as containing offensive material will receive explicit notifications recommending replacement with compliant imagery. Failure to make timely adjustments will result in lowered product completeness scores, potentially affecting search rankings and product visibility.
The platform states this initiative aims to foster a healthier shopping environment while protecting consumer interests. Officials note that compliance with the new regulations will ultimately benefit merchants through improved brand perception and sales performance.