Protecting Yourself from Counterfeit Products
Ordering a product made in the UK, only to note that the starting point is China, it is likely you are dealing with fake merchandise. That typically happens when dealing with online shopping stores with a variety of vendors. No one is exempted from the difficulty of knowing when something is real or not. As it stands, counterfeit products, mainly in fashion and accessories, bring an annual amount of$500 billion globally.
Current Trend
News of Amazon cracking down on counterfeit product showed us that this global giant is not exempted from fraud. Other platforms like Ali Express do face similar challenges and on a higher scale. Since counterfeit products are a global problem, it is unlikely to end. It has in the past brought down whole industries. An example is textiles in developing countries; the reason being the alternatives is cheaper.
Personal Responsibility
The cosmetic industry is by far the hardest hit. There is no shortage of fake Mac and Kylie products on the market, including in the USA. While Amazon (hoping that other platforms follow suit) is launching a Project Zero initiative to kick out and keep out counterfeit goods, we can also do something things different.
Impressive technology will help search for and close accounts of those in violation. As individuals, we can also look at aspects such as the company or vendor. Looking at ratings and feedback is essential, along with visiting their Amazon profiles to learn more about them. In the names don’t match, one ought to consider that a red flag. If still in doubt, the alternative is to use a search engine to find out more about the company and product reviews.
Additional Measures
Consumerism is shifting to a place where people are more aware of their spending power and are mindful of what brands to support. If a company is in a scandal about lifetime capital gains exemption, then it is best to seek alternative places to purchase the product or service in question. Transacting with them is enabling them to continue fraudulent behavior, especially if they delve into counterfeit goods.
Equally, you can be a better helper to other consumers by leaving reviews. If you purchase something and have a problem, don’t complain only to your peers. Spend a few minutes to write a helpful comment for others to beware off. A good review highlights the main concerns; it is not merely emotive in explaining how we feel. Even as the likes of Amazon embark on anti-counterfeit products, we too can help in the fight by being proactive.
