Parents warned over fake Jellycat and Labubu toys at UK Christmas markets – here's what to look out for
Counterfeit toys and scam stalls are on the rise this festive season – here’s how to shop safely
Christmas markets are back – full of mulled wine, fairy lights and festive fun for families. But this year, parents are being warned to shop with care, as scams targeting shoppers and stallholders are sweeping across the UK.
From fake Jellycat and Labubu toys to AI-generated Christmas market hoaxes, experts are urging mums and dads to stay alert.
Leon Trotman, Managing Director at My Debt Plan, explains, “Christmas markets are undeniably a highlight of the festive season, but the rise in scams targeting both visitors and stallholders is becoming a serious concern.”
Here’s what to watch for while browsing the stalls this December.
Counterfeit Jellycat and Labubu toys could pose safety risks
Jellycats and Labubu dolls have been topping wishlists this year, but their popularity has made them a target for counterfeiters. According to My Debt Plan, nearly 250,000 fake Labubu dolls have been seized in the UK in 2025 alone.
While they may look convincing at first glance – and might even be priced to tempt – fake toys often come with serious safety risks, including toxic paint, sharp edges, and unsafe stuffing.
Counterfeit products can contain toxic paint, sharp edges, or unsafe stuffing. What may initially seem like a harmless bargain could actually pose a wider safety risk.
How to spot a fake toy
- Check the label: If there’s no Jellycat or Labubu branding, it’s likely a knock-off.
- Look at the stitching: Frayed seams or low-quality fabric are giveaways.
- Compare logos: Misspelled or oddly positioned labels are common on fakes.
For peace of mind, it’s best to buy directly from trusted retailers or official brand websites.
Social media scams are catching out stallholders
It’s not just shoppers being targeted – stallholders are also at risk, with scammers posing as event organisers on Facebook to collect fake booking fees.
Here’s how the scam works:
- A scammer creates a fake Facebook account, often copying the name and profile picture of a real organiser.
- They post in local groups offering stalls for a “donation” – usually £30 to £60.
- Once payment is made, the account disappears, leaving traders out of pocket.
How to stay safe if you’re booking a stall:
- Check when the account was created – if it’s new with no post history, that’s a red flag.
- Never send money via DMs – always go through official event websites or organisers.
- Contact the organiser directly using a verified website or email address.
If you spot a suspicious post, report it to the group admin and warn others by commenting on the post.
AI-generated Christmas market ads are fooling families
An emerging scam uses AI-generated images to advertise Christmas markets that don’t actually exist. In November, hundreds of people turned up at Buckingham Palace for a festive market that had never been scheduled – all due to convincing (but completely fake) social media ads.
While this particular hoax didn’t charge for tickets, the worry is that similar scams could easily start doing so.
Avoid falling for a fake event:
- Google the market before setting off – official events will appear on council or venue sites.
- Don’t trust viral posts alone, especially if they have no links or real-world contact info.
- Scrutinise images – overly polished or surreal photos may be AI-generated.
It’s so important that you’re not taking everything you see on social media at face value… Even if it’s a local Christmas market you’ve been going to for years, always check that any requests for ticket or stallholder fees are coming from the legitimate event organiser.
Pickpockets are active – especially when you're distracted
Busy markets make it easier for pickpockets to operate – especially when parents are juggling kids, prams and shopping bags.
How to protect your belongings:
- Don’t keep your phone or wallet in your back pocket
- Use a zipped crossbody bag where you can keep an eye on valuables
- Stay alert if someone tries to distract you – it could be a diversion
Trotman explains:
“It is essential to stay alert in crowded areas, ensuring that your belongings are safely tucked away.”
Be cautious when scanning QR codes at stalls
QR codes offering easy access to menus or event info might seem helpful – but some could lead to malicious websites designed to steal your personal information.
Red flags to look for:
- QR codes printed on flimsy, low-quality paper
- Stickers placed on top of original signage
- Codes with no event branding or context
If you’re unsure, ask a stallholder or event organiser before scanning – and report any suspicious codes immediately.
Quick tips to keep your Christmas market experience safe
If you’re heading to a festive market with your family this year, keep these at the top of your list:
- Stick to reputable stalls, especially for children’s toys
- Always double-check booking details via official channels
- Keep your valuables zipped up and close
- Don’t scan random QR codes without verifying them
- If in doubt, trust your instincts and walk away
Always trust your instincts while shopping at Christmas markets. If something doesn’t feel right, then it probably isn’t.
Have you seen a fake market or toy stall?
Report it to event organisers, social media admins or Trading Standards – and help protect other families this Christmas.
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Authors
Ruairidh is the Digital Lead on MadeForMums. He works with a team of fantastically talented content creators and subject-matter experts on MadeForMums.