Fake Labubu dolls threaten kids safety

Safety warning from the CPSC about counterfeit Labubu dolls and how to spot fakes.

Labubu knockoffs threaten kids safety

The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued an urgent safety warning about Lafufu counterfeit Labubu dolls that pose a choking hazard to young children. The fakes are sold as dolls and small keychains, often under $30 through a Chinese seller, Pop Mart, and some rare variants can fetch thousands online. The Commission says these fakes can fit in a small child’s mouth, break into pieces, or block an airway. Authentic Labubu dolls originate from Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung’s The Monsters Trilogy and are distinguished by features like nine teeth on the toy, a holographic sticker, a scannable QR code, and a UV stamp on one foot; fakes may have a different number of teeth, brighter colours, and lack these verification marks.

Consumers are urged to avoid discounted fakes and to buy only from reputable sellers. To spot authenticity, check for a holographic Pop Mart sticker, scan the QR code, and look for the UV stamp on the foot; beware of any product that lacks these cues or shows unusually vivid colours or inconsistent teeth count.

The surge in popularity for Labubu toys has created a counterfeit market that targets quick savings rather than safety. Online marketplaces and casual sellers can blur lines between genuine and fake, leaving parents exposed to choking hazards. Regulators like the CPSC are trying to move faster, but verification still hinges on clear labeling and responsible retailing. This episode highlights a broader need for stronger authentication steps and consumer education so a trendy toy does not become a safety risk.

The case also raises questions about how marketplaces police counterfeit goods and how manufacturers protect their brands while keeping prices fair for families. A clearer system of verification and more proactive policing could reduce risks without stifling legitimate demand.

Highlights

Safety rules must travel faster than popularity