According to recent Counterfeit report, the overall worth of counterfeit products in the world market today is over a trillion dollars. This, to some people, is not a big deal given that fake products do save a substantial amount of cash when buying. Nonetheless, by getting a counterfeit, you are not only getting an inferior product but you are additionally exposing yourself to untold risks.
The Risks
There are actual physical risks associated with counterfeits. You may have heard of exploding phones, shaving razors that cause skin complications and visualize how you would feel if you learnt that you were traveling in a plane with counterfeit parts. A study revealed that the most commonly counterfeited products include electronics, and money!
Part of the risk of using counterfeits is based on the fact that they are usually made from substandard parts and pieces. Large phone manufacturers may, for instance, mark various materials for disposal and destruction but the workers may fail to dispose them and instead use them in fake products. Such electronics and mobile devices are capable of causing dangers which includes generation of harmful radiation and explosion.
In Nigeria, fake handsets are particularly common. This implies that it is easy for anyone to buy a counterfeit phone. This is simply something that you would not wish on yourself or those you love. How then can you avoid being duped into buying fake devices?
Identifying a Counterfeit
Spotting a fake device could be easy or difficult depending on the skill of the manufacturers of the counterfeit device. Most manufacturers of counterfeit products, however, aim at cutting costs and, thus, the end products are markedly different from the original. Original products have distinct marks via which they can easily be identified. When buying, therefore, carefully examine the product and compare it with the original sample to establish its authenticity.
What Is The Product Called?
It is often easy to spot a counterfeit. A device could, for instance, be an ‘Abble’ product instead of Apple.
Looking at the name of the product will tell you whether it is original or fake. When a Samsung phone could be named ‘Samsum’, then you should be on your guard to double-check whether it is counterfeit or not.
Who Made It?
Next, establish the origin. Most fake handset manufacturers are so bad that you may find they make open and blatant flaws that are clear indicators of counterfeit products. You could find that a phone has been shown to have been built and designed in “New York, China”! Often this is done as the manufacturers try to evade litigation. Therefore, establish the origin of the device before you buy it.
How Does It Look and Feel?
The physical appearance of a device could tell you whether it is a counterfeit or not. A fake phone may, for instance, have washed out colors and strange patterns. The logo too may be a strange variant. The feel of the handset in your hands too may be different. Some of its parts too could be made from cheap substituted materials such as plastic instead of metal.
How Much Does It Cost?
The price of a handset or any other device can also be an indicator of it being an original or a counterfeit. Most counterfeits come at unbelievably low prices and are often highly negotiable.
Where Did You Buy It?
Where or who you are buying from could enhance chances of getting a fake device. Buying from authorized retailers and dealers, for instance, means you will get a genuine product. Buying from a dealer you meet in the streets or in an alley could mean you end up with a fake product. One, however, can never be too sure with online buying. Before you buy online, read the reviews and always buy from reputable online retailers.
