How to spot a fake Tonie

Fake Tonies are rare, but they exist. Here's what to check — and what to do if you're not sure.

Check the base

• Genuine Tonies have a printed copyright line and batch code on the base. Fakes often have blurry, misspelt or missing text.
• The base should sit flat with a clean magnet — no glue marks or loose parts.

Check the figure

• Paint should be neat with crisp edges. Smudges, bubbles or colours that don't match the official photos are warning signs.
• Genuine figures feel solid and weighty. Very light figures can be fakes.

Check it plays

• Put it on a Toniebox connected to Wi-Fi. A genuine Tonie downloads and plays the right story.
• Creative-Tonies are blank to start with — that's normal.

Check the price and the seller

• A brand-new Tonie for a fraction of the usual price is a red flag.
• Look at the seller's reviews and how long they've been a member.

Never pay outside the app

Sellers who ask for bank transfer, PayPal "friends and family" or similar are asking you to give up Buyer Protection. Always pay in the app.

If something's not right

Report the listing, or if you've already bought it, use Report a problem within 48 hours of delivery. You'll get a full refund if it isn't genuine.