Medium riskMarketplace Scams

Counterfeit Toy Scam

In this scam, counterfeit or unsafe toys, often popular branded or in-demand items, are sold as genuine at low prices, risking safety and disappointment as well as wasted money.

Quick verdict

Risk level
Medium risk
Scam type
Counterfeit goods (toys)
Main red flag
Popular branded toys sold well below normal by an unverified seller.
What to do first
Buy from authorised retailers and check safety marks and packaging.

What this scam usually looks like

In this scam, counterfeit or unsafe toys, often popular branded or in-demand items, are sold as genuine at low prices, risking safety and disappointment as well as wasted money.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'Hot holiday toy in stock, half price! Limited quantities, pay by transfer for fast shipping.'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • In-demand toys priced well below normal
  • No safety marks or genuine packaging
  • Payment by transfer with no protection
  • A seller with no verifiable history
  • Pressure citing limited stock

What to do

  • Buy from authorised retailers
  • Check safety marks, packaging, and labelling
  • Be wary of in-demand toys sold cheaply
  • Pay with a method you can dispute

If you already clicked or replied

  • If a toy is counterfeit or unsafe, stop using it and keep it as evidence
  • Open a dispute with your payment provider or platform
  • Report the seller and unsafe product to authorities
  • Warn others where possible

What not to do

  • Do not give children counterfeit or unsafe toys
  • Do not buy in-demand toys far below market
  • Do not pay by irreversible methods

Similar scams

Medium risk Marketplace

Counterfeit Designer Goods Scam

In this scam, a seller lists counterfeit designer items as authentic at tempting prices, often with stock photos, and ships a fake, a lower-quality copy, or nothing at all.
Medium risk Marketplace

Counterfeit Parts Scam

In this scam, counterfeit or substandard spare parts, such as car components, phone batteries, or appliance parts, are sold as genuine at low prices, risking safety and failure as well as wasted money.
High risk Online Shopping

Fake Online Store Scam

This scam sets up a convincing but fake store with very low prices, takes payment, and delivers nothing, a counterfeit, or a cheap substitute.

Frequently asked questions

Why are counterfeit toys dangerous?
Fake toys can lack safety testing and contain hazards like choking parts or harmful materials, risking children's safety beyond the wasted money.
How do I check a toy is genuine?
Buy from authorised retailers, check safety marks and packaging, and be wary of in-demand toys sold far below normal price.
I received a counterfeit toy. What now?
Stop using it, keep it as evidence, open a dispute with your payment provider or platform, and report the unsafe product and seller.
Are holiday 'must-have' toys a target?
Yes. High demand and limited stock drive people to risky deals, which scammers exploit with counterfeits.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.