What percentage of people were deceived into buying counterfeit products online last year?
Nearly 70 percent of people were deceived into buying a counterfeit product online at least once last year.
Why are counterfeit products dangerous?
Counterfeit products can be harmful due to the use of dangerous chemicals, filth, or other substances that shouldn't be ingested or applied to the body. Fake electronics can malfunction or catch fire, and counterfeit life-saving products like airbags or brake pads can fail in emergencies.
What are some examples of commonly counterfeited products?
Counterfeit products span across industries, including luxury items, toys, automotive parts, baby formula, food, and pharmaceuticals.
How can you avoid buying counterfeit products online?
The safest way to avoid counterfeits is to buy directly from the brand's website or manufacturer. On e-commerce platforms, ensure you're buying from the brand or a verified seller, not a third-party seller.
What should you do if you suspect a product you bought is counterfeit?
Stop using the product immediately and report it to the e-commerce platform. You can also reach out to the legitimate brand to verify its authenticity and report the seller to a U.S. government agency.
What percentage of online pharmacies are fake?
Over 90% of online pharmacies are fake, according to the Alliance for Safe Online Pharmacies.
What are some warning signs of a counterfeit product?
Warning signs include misspellings on packaging, incorrect logos or colors, unusual smells, or sellers offering unrelated products like kitchen goods alongside electronics or backpacks.
What should you avoid buying from third-party sellers online?
Avoid buying pharmaceuticals, vitamins, and other potentially dangerous products like retractable dog leashes or electronics from third-party sellers.
How can you verify if an online pharmacy is legitimate?
Check FDA.gov for links to pharmacy licensing databases for states and U.S. territories. If the pharmacy isn't listed, the FDA advises not to use it.
What are the risks of buying counterfeit products in physical stores?
Counterfeit products can still appear in physical stores, especially in discount or flea market-style stores. The risk is that you may not be able to trace the seller if the product is harmful, unlike with legitimate brick-and-mortar stores.
- Counterfeit products can malfunction or catch fire.
- Counterfeit medications or skincare products can contain dangerous chemicals or filth.
- Counterfeit safety products like car airbags or brake pads can be extremely risky.
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