If you’ve spotted a cheeky-looking toy turning up all over your feed lately, you’re not imagining things.

This playful trend has quickly taken over, with fans, young and old, jumping on the bandwagon.

But now, warnings are being issued as fakes start circulating, catching out shoppers who just wanted in on the fun.


Labubu, for those not yet in the know, is a whimsical character first dreamed up by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung back in 2015.

Originally featured in a series of illustrated books, Labubu’s popularity soared after a collaboration with Pop Mart, a Chinese collectibles giant.

The real explosion, however, came when Lisa from the K-pop group sensation BLACKPINK flaunted her own Labubu online. Suddenly, everyone wanted one.


Pop Mart’s fortunes have skyrocketed alongside Labubu’s fame.

The company’s share value has soared by over 150 per cent, and it’s now valued at a staggering $60 billion—outshining even toy industry titans like Mattel, Hasbro, and Sanrio.

Not bad for a cheeky little critter with nine sharp teeth!


But with popularity comes pitfalls. NSW Fair Trading has sounded the alarm about a wave of counterfeit Labubu products—dubbed 'Lafufus'—circulating online.

These fakes are not only disappointing for collectors, but in some cases, buyers are being duped out of their money entirely, with products never arriving at all.

So, how can you spot a dodgy Lafufu? Here are some red flags to watch for:

• Packaging: Genuine Labubus come in a matte box, while fakes often use shiny packaging.
• Teeth: The real deal sports exactly nine sharp, pointed teeth. Counterfeits may have more or fewer.
• Ears: Authentic Labubus have distinctively shaped ears that are close together. Fakes often have ears that are further apart and oddly shaped.
• Price: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is, especially on overseas websites with little to no reputation.
• Seller Reputation: Always check reviews and only buy from trusted, legitimate retailers.

It’s not just the cute (or slightly creepy) look that’s driving the craze.

Labubu has become a symbol of pop culture cool, thanks in part to celebrity endorsements and the thrill of collecting limited-edition releases.

For many, it’s a nostalgic nod to childhood collectibles, but with a modern, fashionable twist.

If you’re thinking of jumping on the Labubu bandwagon—or buying one as a gift for a grandchild—here are some tips to keep your money safe:

• Stick to Official Retailers: Buy directly from Pop Mart or authorised stockists. Avoid unfamiliar online stores, especially those with rock-bottom prices.
• Check the Details: Compare the product photos and descriptions with those on the official Pop Mart website.
• Read Reviews: Look for feedback from other buyers. A lack of reviews or a string of negative comments is a big red flag.
• Use Secure Payment Methods: Credit cards and PayPal offer more protection if something goes wrong.
• Be Wary of Social Media Ads: Scammers often use targeted ads to lure in unsuspecting buyers.

If you suspect you’ve purchased a fake Labubu or haven’t received your order, contact your bank or payment provider immediately to see if you can reverse the transaction.

Report the scam to NSW Fair Trading or Scamwatch to help protect others.

Trends come and go, but scammers are always lurking in the shadows of the latest craze.

Whether you’re a collector yourself or shopping for a loved one, a little caution goes a long way. Remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is!
Have you or someone you know been caught out by a fake Labubu or another online scam? Or maybe you’re a proud owner of the real thing? Share your stories, tips, or questions in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!

Read more: This toy has Aussies lining up before dawn—find out why it’s worth up to $3,000!