Fake Labubu products pose serious risk of choking, death in children, CPSC warns

A new safety warning from the Consumer Product Safety Commission involving fake Labubu's. ABC11 first warned you about scammers selling fake Labubus, which are referred to as Lafufus, and now this new safety warning from the CPSC comes as the plush toys grow in popularity.

Labubus, tare little monster plush figures and key chains, are one of the hottest items on the market right now. With their increasing popularity, counterfeits are on the rise as well. "One of the telltale signs is the fact that the real Labubu's have nine teeth. Their face is a specific color and actually has like an authenticity stamp on the bottom of their foot. The fake ones will not have that; they may have a different number of teeth in their face, maybe a little bit of a different color," says Alyssa Parker with the Better Business Bureau of Eastern Carolinas.

The CPSC says Lafufus are posing a serious risk of choking and death in young children. The agency says that fakes are small enough for a child to fit the toy inside their mouth and block their airway. CPSC has also received reports of Lafufus that break apart easily, leaving small pieces that can become choking hazards. The agency is urging consumers not to purchase fake Labubus, and if you already have, keep them away from your children. The CPSC provides further ways to spot fake Labubus. They warn consumers to be aware of bargains, as these discounts are often tied to fakes.

ABC11 already showed you how the authentic Pop Mart Labubu has a holographic Pop Mart sticker and a scannable QR code that links to the official website. Fakes often have overly bright colors or the wrong number of teeth; real Labubus always have nine teeth.

Investigators at CPCS say they have identified multiple shipments of Lafufus. "These fake Labubu dolls are dangerous, illegal, and have no place in American homes," said CPSC Acting Chairman Peter A. Feldman. "No parent should have to wonder if a toy will stop their child from breathing. Protect your children and buy only from reputable sellers."

CPCS also said that they will continue aggressive enforcement at U.S. ports to block dangerous imports before they reach American families. To keep your kids safe, stay away from fake Labubus. Always check the safety label for toys with small parts, look for choking hazard warnings, and independent safety certification marks.