Warning issued to UK parents over dangerous fake toys

Police smashing counterfeit goods' gangs have revealed nearly 250,000 fake and dangerous Labubu dolls have been seized in 2025 - before being sold to UK kids. The distinctive and collectable furry monster-like soft toys, manufactured by Chinese firm Pop Mart, have rocketed in popularity recently, with their pointy ears and big eyes.

However, Merseyside Police said fakes can include toxic paint, sharp edges or unsafe stuffing with over 236,000 seized in the UK up until October worth £3.3m - of which 75 percent failed critical safety tests - and accounting for around 90 per cent of all counterfeit toys seized this year. Now - as Christmas approaches and many of us begin shopping for gifts - police and Trading Standards are urging residents to be cautious when buying toys.

New Liverpool city centre seizures this week have coincided with the launch of a national campaign entitled 'Fake Toys, Real Harms', led by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO).

The IPO said fake toys can also pose choking risks to young children and be constructed with chemicals linked to increased risks of cancer.

Liverpool City Centre Neighbourhood Sergeant Richard Clare said: "We understand that some people may not see the harm in buying counterfeit toys, especially when they're cheaper or appear similar to the real thing.

"But behind these fake products are serious risks - not just to children's safety, but to our communities.

"Counterfeit and illicit goods are rarely just about fake products; they're often linked to wider criminal networks that cause real harm in our communities.

"That's why it's vital we seize these items and thoroughly investigate those responsible.

"We're committed to protecting the public and we urge everyone to think twice before buying counterfeit goods, especially with Christmas coming up. What may seem like a harmless bargain could be funding crime and putting lives at risk."

The north-west based force carried out a joint operation alongside Liverpool City Council's Trading Standards team in the city centre on Tuesday, and found the fake dolls on sale for £7.99 each.

Officers carried out enforcement visits at two stores on Ranelagh St and Church St, on Tuesday 14 October, and found just under 100 counterfeit dolls, being sold for £7.99.

The action forms part of Merseyside Police's Operation Scent, which targets the sale of fraudulent perfumes and other counterfeit goods.

Merseyside Police said: "Counterfeit versions often display twisted limbs, misshapen heads, or an incorrect number of teeth, and pose serious safety risks due to the potential presence of toxic paint, sharp edges, or unsafe stuffing.

"Upon inspection of a similar counterfeit Labubu doll, the item was found to be poorly constructed, with its head and feet twisting and loosening easily.

"The internal stuffing tore open with minimal force and appeared potentially hazardous - especially for children - as it may contain unsafe materials such as toxins or sharp objects.

"As Christmas approaches and many of us begin shopping for gifts, Merseyside Police and Trading Standards are urging residents to be cautious when buying toys.

"Before making a purchase, ask yourself: Does this shop usually sell toys? Check that the packaging is of good quality and includes essential safety marks such as the CE or UKCA symbol. Packaging should also contain warning and usage instructions."

Police said operations like this demonstrate how the trade in counterfeit goods can be linked to wider criminal networks and other serious offences.

Councillor Harry Doyle, Liverpool City Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture said: "Counterfeit toys can be dangerous and misleading, especially when they're aimed at children.

"I'm pleased to see our Trading Standards team work in partnership with Merseyside Police to crackdown on the sale of these goods to protect shoppers and raise awareness ahead of the festive season."

The 'Fake Toys, Real Harms' IPO campaign warns of the serious health and safety risks posed by counterfeit toys, including toxic materials, choking hazards, and unsafe construction - especially in products aimed at young children.

These include banned chemicals linked to cancer, dangerous choking hazards, and other serious risks - even in toys marketed at toddlers and infants. The IPO said 46 percent of those purchasing fake Labubus experienced serious safety issues.

Their advice on how to avoid buying counterfeit toys says before you buy always: stick to trusted retailers or official brand websites and be cautious with third-party sellers on marketplaces; check reviews carefully. Look beyond the five-star ones and read the negatives; be wary of prices that look "too good to be true" - counterfeits are often much cheaper; make sure the toy has not been recalled by searching the brand and product name."

Then when the toy arrives, always: look for a UKCA or CE safety mark and a UK contact address on the packaging; check the packaging looks professional and includes age warnings and inspect the toy for no loose small parts, stuffing, or unsecured batteries.

If you spot a Counterfeit or unsafe toy, you should: don't give it to your child. Return it straight away; leave a review to warn other parents; report the seller to the platform you bought from; contact Trading Standards to help stop dangerous toys reaching other families.

The IPO's Deputy Director of Enforcement, Helen Barnham said: "With counterfeit toys, what you see is rarely what you get. Behind the packaging can be hidden choking hazards, toxic chemicals and faulty parts that put children in real danger.

"These products have bypassed every safety check the law requires, which is why we're working with our partners to keep these dangerous fakes out of UK homes.

"Our 'Fake Toys, Real Harm' campaign aims to raise awareness among parents and present buyers of the hidden harms associated with counterfeits. Child safety must come first, so we're urging parents - please don't let your child be the tester."