Sadly, counterfeits are everywhere and there is no proven method currently to guarantee of the genuineness of the products you purchase.
However, being sure of the authenticity of the manufacturer and dealer is a step in the right direction.
Because of the rise in demand of different products, be sure of the rise of counterfeits as well. Therefore, the media had to raise alarm on the concerns of consumers. Some of the frequent questions from the consumers that experts had to answer included the following;
How Often Are Consumers Facing Counterfeits?
Every day, consumers become victims of counterfeits.
The worldwide market for fake goods is more than $1.5 trillion yearly, equivalent to the GDP of a big country—evidently, the rate of the danger of being a victim rest on the type of counterfeit purchased.
When it comes to clothing, the risks are of poor quality. Also, nearly 80% of French perfume producers have reported counterfeits in the market within five years. But with food and drugs, the risks could be fatal.
What Products Have High Counterfeits?
Usually, every successful brand has a counterfeit. In the US, you will find large volumes of fake shoes, consumer goods, fashion, toys and even drugs. Besides, trendy items are often victims of counterfeiting.
Moreover, several cases arising from fake cosmetics leading to severe harm from the toxins in the ingredients such as mercury, lead, coli and arsenic. Still, there are cases of fake vape cartridges that can even lead to deaths. Astonishingly, you will find counterfeit products where you least expect, such as airbags and spare auto parts.
What Are the Risks Of Buying Counterfeits?
Counterfeits involve several risks, but it all goes down to a matter of personal safety. Fake cosmetics cause damage to skin that goes beyond irritation. Still, fake drugs do nothing to cure the illness and even contain toxic ingredients.
Counterfeit toys that fail to meet the controlled US safety standards often contain dangerous parts and dangerous chemicals in dyes and paints. For instance, current confiscations of fake bicycles displayed high levels of lead in the paint.
Counterfeit production and supply are banned and usually run by crime groups as well as imitation foreign enterprises. If you purchase counterfeits knowingly and unknowingly, rest assured of fuelling a very profitable illicit economy hence pulling down the valid economy.
What Measures Are Brands Taking Against Counterfeits?
Brands are setting up a layered tactic to protecting products. There are numerous obvious and secret systems being used like seals, foils, special designs and even UV inks and exclusive electronics.
Furthermore, some brands are checking on digital tools like QR codes to connect with consumers. However, those are inert and attract easy copying by counterfeiters, similar to the above traditional methods. Even so, the search for the best anti-counterfeiting solution still continues with high hopes.
How Can Consumers Protect Themselves From Counterfeits During COVID-19?
It is not a matter of what you are buying that you should focus on but rather who you are buying and from where. Counterfeiters are present even in the online market that is impacting the retail sector currently.
Still, consumers should be aware of the price. It is too good to be true; then it is too good to be true. Also, encountering products you don’t expect to be in certain areas like discounts, you are likely dealing with a counterfeit.
Generally, the review section is the best place to ascertain what you are dealing with. Do your research before purchasing.