Counterfeit Merchandise Scam

Counterfeit merchandise is often sold at a deal that is too good to be true and tactics on the length of the deal such as “Today Only” or “Limited Time Offer” are often used. Advertisements for counterfeit merchandise are often advertised on the internet and on social media. Counterfeit products are often lower quality and can thus create a health and safety risk.

If you receive a counterfeit product, you are encouraged to destroy it and deny that the product has been delivered. This results in the seller losing money for the price of the product.

Now it’s your turn!

SPOT THE SCAM
Counterfeit Merchandise Scam Clues
  • Be careful of products that are being sold at a very reduced price.
  • Scan the ad for spelling mistakes or referring to the product being listed as “the item”.
  • Beware of urgent messaging.
STOP THE SCAM
Counterfeit Merchandise Scam Defence
  • Know the market value or the average price that a product is being sold for.
  • Find and verify the contact information of a seller before you buy.
  • When purchasing a product, check reviews and ratings of the product and or seller.
  • When making a purchase, use a payment method that has fraud protection (e.g. pay by credit card).
  • When possible, exchange items and deal with payment in person.
  • Review the legitimacy of the seller.
  • Never send money to get money.
  • Check online to see if the seller has been reported as fraudulent.

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