Needoh Advent Calendar Scam - How to Protect Yourself

Red Flags: How to Spot a Fake NeeDoh Advent Calendar

If you are buying from a reseller or unverified site, check for these common warning signs tracked by the BBB Scam Tracker and toy communities:

• Individually Wrapped Items: Official NeeDoh squishies are placed directly into the advent calendar slots. If the squishies inside the box are wrapped in individual plastic bags, it is a counterfeit.
• Grammar Errors on Packaging: Look closely at the text. Fake boxes often feature ridiculous typos, bizarre item descriptions (e.g., "Contains small pants"), or lack an official UPC barcode.
• Poor Toy Quality: Real NeeDoh products have a satisfying, matte "memory foam" feel. Counterfeits are frequently greasy, sticky, filled with air bubbles, or emit a harsh chemical smell.
• Fake Brand Crossover: NeeDoh does not manufacture blind bags or do collaborative holiday sets with soda brands (like Fanta or Dr Pepper).
• Suspicious Pricing: The real calendar retails for roughly $29.99 to $42.00. Sites offering extreme discounts (e.g., under $15) or individuals reselling them for massive markups without reviews should be avoided.

Where to Buy a Legitimate Calendar

Schylling explicitly warns that they are the only official source, and the real product is only distributed through authorized, reputable retail partners. You can safely look for them at:

• In-Store Retailers: Physical locations like Costco, Hallmark, The Paper Store, and local boutique toy shops.
• Verified Online Stockists: Trustworthy online storefronts like Fat Brain Toys.
• Amazon Invitation Only: Amazon features an official request option directly from the brand where you can get a secure 72-hour purchase link. Avoid third-party sellers on the platform unless explicitly fulfilled by Schylling.

What to Do If You've Been Scammed

If you already ordered a calendar and received a fake or nothing at all:

1. Contact the Seller: Request a full refund immediately citing a misrepresented product.
2. File a Bank Chargeback: If the seller refuses to reply or resolve the issue, contact your credit card provider or bank right away. File a fraud dispute and provide screenshots of the listing versus what you received.