Counterfeit Goods
Fake or knock-off products sold as genuine, often unsafe and with no real warranty or returns.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
What this scam is
Counterfeit goods are fakes sold as the real brand. Beyond wasted money, some — like electronics, cosmetics or medicines — can be genuinely unsafe.
How it works
Sellers list counterfeits on marketplaces, social shops or standalone sites using genuine brand images. Prices may be only slightly discounted to seem credible. Returns and warranties are refused once you receive the fake.
Common red flags
- Prices that undercut everywhere else for in-demand brands
- Sellers with little history or copied photos
- No official warranty or vague returns policy
- Packaging or spelling errors on arrival
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
Genuine [brand] — 60% off, ships from overseas, all sales final.
Payment methods used
- Card
- Payment apps
- Bank transfer
Who is usually targeted
- Shoppers seeking branded goods
- Gift buyers
What to do immediately
- Stop further purchases from the seller
- Open a marketplace dispute or card chargeback
- Report counterfeits to the platform and brand
Evidence to preserve
- Listing screenshots
- Photos of the item and packaging
- Payment records
Where to report it
- Action Fraud (UK) — UK national fraud & cybercrime reporting centre
- FTC ReportFraud (US) — US Federal Trade Commission fraud reports
- FBI IC3 (US) — US Internet Crime Complaint Center
- Scamwatch (Australia) — Australian competition & consumer reporting
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Frequently asked questions
Is buying counterfeits illegal?
Selling counterfeits is illegal, and importing them can carry penalties in some countries. Beyond legality, counterfeits often lack safety testing and any genuine warranty.