Alert over 'potentially dangerous' fake Labubu dolls

Counterfeit versions of the much sought-after Labubu collectable dolls have been seized in Scotland, which could be dangerous to children due to loose parts that may pose a choking hazard.

Trading Standards officers came across the knock-off copies of Pop Mart's massively popular bag charms, which were temporarily withdrawn from stress in the UK earlier this year after reports that customers frustrated by long queues were fighting over them. The soft toys became a phenomenon after being worn by celebrities like Rihanna and Dua Lipa in TikTok reels. 

The fakes do not have the required safety labelling, including a supplier in the UK or EU, said Trading Standards, which seized them from four premises in the city of Aberdeen.

"These counterfeit toys can seem like a bargain compared with trying to source the genuine toy, especially when they are a much-sought-after item, but they are potentially dangerous," commented Aberdeen Trading Standards manager Graeme Paton.

"Counterfeit toys can potentially pose significant dangers to young children, such as chemical exposure and choking hazards," he added. "These products routinely lack proper safety testing, and we encourage anyone concerned about the safety of toys they’ve purchased to get in touch with us via Consumer Advice Scotland."

The advice for the public is to avoid buying dolls that have a suspiciously low price and only source them from reputable sellers, and to check the packaging carefully. Legitimate products should have a CE or UKCA mark and the name and address of the supplier in the UK or EU to show that the product complies with safety regulations.