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Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach issued a consumer alert warning Kansans about dangerous vaping products from China that are designed to target children. These devices, often called smart vapes, allow users to play games, use social media, connect to Bluetooth, and listen to music while inhaling unregulated substances. They are made to attract teens and hide their true purpose from parents. Some even reward users for taking more puffs, which increases nicotine addiction. Over time, the number of puffs per device has grown, making addiction worse.

Only a small number of vaping products are approved by the FDA. More than 90 percent of disposable vapes sold in the U.S. come from China and are largely unregulated.

Many of these vapes contain harmful materials like lead, nickel, and Vitamin E acetate, which can cause serious lung illness and cancer. These devices can also collect personal data through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, creating privacy and security risks.

Parents and educators are encouraged to learn how to spot these devices, talk with kids about the dangers, and watch for vapes disguised as everyday items like pens or highlighters.