AUTHORITIES have issued a warning regarding Christmas scams targeting online shoppers with fake toys and electronics that can overheat and explode.

The National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center (IPR Center) and the FBI have come together to warn Americans of the danger of buying counterfeit goods online.

“For the most part, the holidays represent a season of goodwill and giving, but for criminals, it is the season to attract unsuspecting vacation buyers,” said Matt Allen, director of the IPR Center.

Counterfeit electronics can overheat and explode, agencies say, while bicycle helmets can shatter if impacted because they are not federally regulated.

“Counterfeit and counterfeit toys sold by disreputable sellers are very unlikely to comply with strict toy safety laws designed to protect playing children,” said Steve Pasierb, President and CEO of The Toy Association.

“These counterfeit and non-conforming products may have small parts which may break, may not be age appropriately classified, or may pose other risks to children,” he added.

Additionally, fake cosmetics and health care products can be made with dangerous or unsanitary ingredients that should not be applied to the skin.

As for seasonal home items like holiday lights, they can be miswired and start fires if they come from unauthorized retailers.

Apart from the possible danger of buying counterfeit products, websites that sell them can also put buyers at risk of having their personal and financial data stolen for other nefarious purposes.

The IPR Center recommends that you buy products only from reputable retailers and do not buy expensive items from third-party websites.

They also suggest reading product reviews on websites and research companies that you don’t know.

When it comes to privacy and security, it is important to check the privacy policies of websites as well as your bank statements.

When shopping online, families should carefully review listings and buy only from reputable sellers and well-known brands, whose legitimate toys meet over 100 different safety standards and tests required by law, ”concluded Steve Pasierb of the Toy Association.

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