COPS have warned shoppers against buying knock-off toys for children ahead of Christmas. 

As more people opt to shop online for gifts ahead of the festive season, Police Scotland has urged consumers to be aware of the signs that a toy may be counterfeit. 

According to Trading Standards Scotland, importing fake toys to be sold in the UK causes a loss of as much as £250 million to the UK economy. 

In a statement issued today, the force informed shoppers of signs that a product could be fake.

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People should ensure they only buy from trusted retailers and look for the Lion Mark or CE marking, and check that the product description states that the toy is original, is not blurry or has spelling errors. 

The price of products could also be a giveaway, as toys sold online for much cheaper than their retail price are often fakes. 

 

This warning comes ahead of the Christmas shopping season and Black Friday, a shopping event in late November which is known for promoting sales at heavily discounted prices. 

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In 2020, 60% of toys from internet sellers tested by The British Toy & Hobby Association (BTHA) were shown to have serious safety failures, while 86% were illegal to sell in the UK.

Problems with counterfeit toys include being able to access small batteries and magnets and long cords which pose a strangulation risk.

Some products also had incorrect age warnings, which could result in babies and toddlers having dangerous toys.