Dangerous China Imports: Customs Destroys Hundreds of Toy Counterfeits

The Austrian customs office participated in the international operation "Ludus V" in the fourth quarter of 2024. The action targets the illegal trade of counterfeit and potentially dangerous toys.

It was coordinated by Europol, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), and the World Customs Organization. Law enforcement agencies from Spain, Romania, and France were involved.

International Cooperation Against Product Counterfeiting

As part of the offensive, the Austrian customs office inspected 703 product groups during 536 import clearances between October and December. In eleven cases, a total of 361 toys were seized and destroyed – including 121 stuffed animals, 166 building blocks, and 55 trading cards. The affected products originated exclusively from China and were not released due to trademark violations.

Warning About Fake Shops: Risk of Online Toy Purchases Increases

According to the customs authority, the number of dubious online providers selling counterfeits at dumping prices is increasing. Consumers are lured to so-called fake shops with seemingly cheap offers. These products often do not meet safety standards and can pose a significant risk.

To avoid fraud, the customs office advises carefully checking online shops before purchasing. A complete imprint with contact options, address, and email is a central criterion. Shops that only require advance payment should be viewed with caution. Payment methods with chargeback options, such as credit card or PayPal, are considered safer. Consumer portals and reviews can provide additional information on the reliability of a provider.

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