The ACCC has issued takedown requests to Amazon, eBay, Kogan and Fruugo after detecting banned toys and games containing potentially deadly small high-powered magnets being sold to Australian consumers online.

The consumer watchdog is investigating products including “magnetic chess” and “magnetic battle chess” style games, which may contain separable or loose magnets covered by a permanent ban under Australian Consumer Law.

The ACCC said these magnets can cause catastrophic internal injuries or death if swallowed, particularly by young children. If multiple magnets are ingested, they can stick together inside the intestine or digestive tissue. They also pose a choking risk.

ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said the regulator was “extremely concerned” that banned products had been listed on online marketplaces and urged platforms to do more to stop unsafe goods being sold.

Amazon, eBay, Kogan and Fruugo have committed to removing affected listings and taking extra steps to prevent similar products being relisted. The companies will also contact affected customers to warn them about the safety risks.

Kogan, Amazon and Fruugo have provided, or offered to provide, refunds to customers who bought products under investigation.

The ACCC is urging consumers who purchased these products to stop using them immediately, keep them away from children, and contact the seller or marketplace for a refund.

The regulator said several products containing small high-powered magnets had already been voluntarily recalled since its investigation began.

Businesses selling toys and games have been told to review products immediately and conduct recalls if non-compliant goods are identified.

The ACCC said unsafe products in digital markets remain a key enforcement priority for 2026-27.