“Urgent” National Warning Issued on “Lookalike” of Popular Collectible Dolls

If you’ve had to Google the term “Labubu” or certainly if you’ve purchased any, maybe you’ve learned they’re this generation of kiddos’ answer to Beanie Babies and Pokemon. In the image you see here, Getty Images explains that “Labubu elves” are “collectible plush toys designed by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung.” Don’t tell the little ones this, but it’s reported Lung has created more than 300 characters under the collection.

If by chance you’ve purchased a lookalike to the Labubu, not only will a child be likely to call it out, but the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) is, too. A Monday evening CPSC alert stated the following warning on what they call “lookalike” and “fake Labubu plush dolls, sometimes referred to as ‘Lafufu'”:

“These fakes, sold both as plush figures and plush keychains, are small enough for a child to fit the doll in their mouth and block their airway. CPSC has also received reports of fake Labubu dolls that break apart easily, releasing small pieces that can become choking hazards.”

The CPSC adds that the “knockoffs,” as they call them, are “sold as both plush figures and plush keychains.”

The agency is taking a strong stance, as the advisory reveals: “CPSC investigators have identified multiple shipments of these lookalikes attempting U.S. entry from China and requested seizure of thousands of units after confirming violation of federal regulations for toys with small parts.” CPSC Acting Chairman Peter A. Feldman stated: “These fake Labubu dolls are dangerous, illegal, and have no place in American homes,” adding: “No parent should have to wonder if a toy will stop their child from breathing. Protect your children and buy only from reputable sellers.”

The CPSC lists steps to spot a fake Labubu—from their site:

• Beware of bargains — deep discounts can signal fake products.
• Authentic Pop Mart Labubu dolls feature a holographic Pop Mart sticker, a scannable QR code linking to the official Pop Mart site, and (on newer editions) a subtle UV stamp on one foot.
• Fakes often have overly bright colors or the wrong number of teeth (authentic dolls have nine).
• Know your seller — purchase only from trusted stores or online marketplaces.
• Check safety labeling — for toys with small parts, look for choking hazard warnings and independent safety certification marks.

“Federal law prohibits the importation and sale of consumer products that fail to meet CPSC safety standards,” the alert reads. “CPSC will continue aggressive enforcement at U.S. ports to block dangerous imports before they reach American families.”

The CPSC was established in 1972 and fulfills a similar function to the FDA’s oversight of food and drugs, but to toys, clothing, household products, and other consumer-facing goods. The current administration is challenging the CPSC’s existence—a July 23, 2025 post on SCOTUSblog.com reported, “The Supreme Court on Wednesday cleared the way for the Trump administration to remove three of the five members of the Consumer Product Safety Commission from office.”

The CPSC has published recalls on 16 products in August 2025 alone, some sold at major retailers.

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