Shop safely

Products that are counterfeit are also likely to be sub-standard or faulty, and therefore dangerous.

What’s the problem?

• Fake medicines could be completely ineffective or highly dangerous;
• Fake food, drinks and alcohol could harm your health;
• Fake electrical devices could be a fire hazard or cause electrocution;
• Pirate audiovisual websites could be a waste of money and expose you to cyber-security risks.

What can you do?

Counterfeit goods are often difficult to distinguish from the real products, but these simple steps can help ensure you are buying the genuine article.

• Does the price seem too good to be true? It probably is! A particularly low price tag should trigger alarm bells;
• Check the logo and packaging carefully;
• Examine the product and be wary of any signs of poor construction;
• Check any safety seals;
• Ask the seller where the product came from;
• Does the item come with a guarantee? Be suspicious if electrical goods don’t offer one;
• Buy your goods from authorized retailers;
• If buying online, check details about where the company is registered. If no contact details are offered, be suspicious!
• Check the refund and returns policy.

If you’ve seen it, report it!

If you have bought something that turns out to be fake, or if you know where people are selling fake products, report it to your local police.