Federal safety regulators are warning the public not to buy counterfeit Labubu dolls, saying they pose a choking hazard to children.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warned consumers in an Aug. 18 statement not to buy the fake dolls being sold online and elsewhere and to stop using those already purchased.
According to the agency, fake Labubus, sold both as plush dolls and as small keychains, “pose a serious risk of choking and death to young children” because they can fit in a child’s mouth and block their airway.
Some of the knockoffs may also break into small pieces that a child may put in their mouth, CPSC reported.
“Fake Labubu dolls are dangerous, illegal and have no place in American homes,” CPSC acting Chairman Peter Feldman said in the statement. “No parent should have to wonder if a toy will stop their child from breathing.”
The CPSC urged parents to protect children from the choking hazard by buying the dolls “only from reputable sellers.”
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How to tell if your Labubu is fake
Here’s how the CPSC says people can spot a fake Labubu doll:
Look out for bargains that appear too good to be true, as deep discounts can signal a fake product.
Check dolls for marks of authenticity. Authentic Pop Mart Labubu dolls feature a holographic Pop Mart sticker and a scannable QR code linking to the official Pop Mart website. New editions also feature “a subtle UV stamp on one foot.”
Check the teeth. Authentic dolls have nine teeth, while many fake dolls have a different number.
Buy Labubus from trusted stores or online shops and check for choking hazard warnings and safety certification marks to make sure they are included on the toy.
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fake Labubu dolls pose choking hazard, warns safety agency
