Beware of buying the popular 'Labubu' toys from unverified online stores, as there have been reports of scams this week.
The popular Labubu “macaron” version is in high demand due to Lisa BLACKPINK posting pictures with a Labubu box on her social media. As a result, the price has gone up and stocks are low.
Puangpetch Chunla-iad from the PM’s Office is cautioning collectors about online stores selling the toy for over 10,000 baht to take advantage of the trend.
Some buyers have been fooled into purchasing fake Labubu dolls, and some haven't even received the product after paying.
Puangpetch, who is also responsible for the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), warns that some online sellers are exploiting the Labubu craze by selling fake or low-quality toys, with some stores taking the money and then shutting down their website.
Trustworthy stores should clearly display their locations and phone numbers, and should be registered as online businesses with the department of business development.
Customers can verify the stores’ credibility with the DBD mark and check for positive reviews. Reliable stores should have been operating for at least a year,
Also, those found guilty of deceiving consumers or selling products that do not match their description could face fines of up to 60,000 baht and/or a 3-year prison term, according to Criminal Code §343.
If convicted of fraud, they could be sentenced to up to 5 years in prison and/or fined 100,000 baht.
Victims of such scams can contact the 1166 OCPB hotline, use the OCPB applications, or visit Thaipoliceonline.com