Louisiana Residents Targeted in Viral Labubu Scam

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning Louisiana shoppers to be extra cautious when buying the trendy Labubu plush toys online. Reports are piling up of counterfeit dolls (nicknamed “Lafufus”) that are costing buyers hundreds of dollars.

Locals are being lured in by social media ads on TikTok and Instagram, often promising “limited edition” Labubu dolls at discounted prices. Instead, customers either receive poorly made knock-offs or nothing at all.

Hundreds Lost in Online Purchases

The BBB Scam Tracker has received over 70 reports from U.S. shoppers who believed they were buying authentic Labubu dolls. One buyer said they lost nearly $500 in July to a fake site that disappeared overnight.

The most commonly reported scam sellers include:

• Kawaii Room
• Cult Neo
• Bubulands
• Bears R Us
• Labubu Fantasy

“These scams are especially dangerous because they target viral trends,” the BBB said. “People are excited to grab the toy before it sells out, and scammers know it.”

How to Spot a Real Labubu

BBB experts say there are key details that separate authentic Labubu dolls from Lafufu fakes:

• Nine teeth and the correct face color on real Labubu dolls.
• Authenticity stamp on the bottom of the foot.
• QR code and 3D holographic sticker on the packaging that links to Pop Mart’s verification page.
• Avoid peer-to-peer payment apps; use credit cards for traceable purchases.

Shoppers are urged to buy only from Pop Mart’s official website or Amazon store to avoid scams.

Popularity Fuels the Counterfeit Market

Labubu dolls, sold in “blind boxes” for $20–$30, have exploded in popularity thanks to celebrity endorsements and viral unboxing videos.

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Some rare “secret” Labubus can fetch thousands of dollars on resale sites.

With demand skyrocketing, counterfeiters have seized the opportunity. International customs officials recently confiscated hundreds of thousands of fake Labubu toys, and the counterfeit market shows no signs of slowing.

Louisiana residents hoping to join the craze are urged to check websites with the BBB Scam Tracker before purchasing.