How to check branded items for originality

Why is it important to check things for authenticity?

Today on the market there are a huge number of counterfeits of branded items that can mislead even experienced buyers. Counterfeit products are often made from low-quality materials and wear out quickly. Therefore, authentication helps to avoid unnecessary expenses and disappointments.

Risks when buying counterfeits:

• fakes are usually made from less durable and even unsafe materials.
• Due to violations of production technology, items may not meet the standards of comfort and durability.

Consumer protection:

• By ensuring the authenticity, you protect your rights as a consumer, since brands often provide a guarantee for original products.

Basic methods for checking branded items

There are several classic methods that will help you check branded items without using special equipment. These methods will be useful during the initial inspection of the product.

Checking by external signs

Carefully examine the item for details specific to the brand:

• logos and fonts: Counterfeits often have slightly different or blurry logos and fonts.
• you and materials: Real brands pay attention to the quality of seams, materials and finishes.
• accessories and parts: Rivets, zippers and buttons often have logos and unique shapes from the original brands.

Packaging and accessories

Packaging can tell a lot about authenticity:

• boxes and cases: original branded items are supplied in high quality branded packaging.
• tags, certificates and receipts: Enclosed documents and tags often have unique markings, such as watermarks or holograms.

Comparison with the official website

View information on the brand’s website:

• photographs of collections: Compare design details, shades and fittings.
• model information: Some brands only release limited collections and information about each item is available on the website.

Specialized services for checking branded items

In addition to traditional methods, there are verification services originality, which greatly simplifies the process. This:

• Online services for checking originality: on such platforms you can upload photos of the product or enter unique identification numbers for verification.
• mobile inspection apps: allow you to scan and check things in real time.

How not to fall for a fake when buying

To ensure that your purchase brings joy rather than disappointment, follow these recommendations:

Choose trusted stores

Buy items only from official brand representatives or trusted multi-brand stores.

• read reviews: reviews from other buyers can warn of possible fakes.
• make sure you have a warranty: Stores selling original items often provide a guarantee and receipt.

Use authenticity checking services

The advantages of such services:

• quick check: services and applications perform analysis in minutes.
• availability and guarantee: Many of them offer certificates confirming the results of the test.
• reasonable cost: Although verification services are paid, they pay for themselves through quality assurance.

Check receipts and certificates

Make sure you are given a receipt and certificate. Study them carefully, as even certificates can sometimes be forged.

Which brands are most often counterfeited?

And what products should you pay special attention to?

Experts here note: some brands are counterfeited especially often due to their popularity and the high cost of the originals. The greatest risk of deception exists when purchasing premium items, accessories and even some sporting goods. Here are a few brands and product categories that need special checking.

Luxury bags and accessories:

• Louis Vuitton: bags from this brand are among the most counterfeited. Scammers copy the iconic pattern and hardware, but details like stitching, quality materials, and proper logo placement set the original apart.
• Gucci: Special attention should be paid to Gucci belts, wallets and bags. Counterfeits are often distinguished by incorrect shades and low-quality fittings.
• Chanel: Chanel bags and sunglasses are especially often counterfeited. Counterfeits often lack original serial numbers and company logos.

Watches and Jewelry:

• Rolex: Rolex watches are considered a status symbol and fakes abound. Make sure you have a unique serial number to identify each Rolex.
• Cartier: Cartier jewelry and watches are counterfeited quite often. These products are made of expensive metals and have a high-quality finish that is noticeable even to the naked eye.
• Tag Heuer and Omega: Popular Swiss watch brands that are also often counterfeited. The originals have excellent detail and high-quality mechanisms.

Sports shoes and clothing:

• Nike and Adidas: These brands have popular collections like Air Jordan and Yeezy that are particularly prone to counterfeiting. Quality of materials, seams and correct identification codes The signs on the box can help distinguish the original from a copy.
• New Balance and Puma: Also popular among scammers. Pay attention to the logos, seams and sole shape, as original models have their own unique details.

Premium cosmetics and perfumes:

• Chanel, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent: Counterfeits of premium cosmetics and perfumes are also common. Make sure that there is branded packaging, compliance with hygienic safety rules and high-quality printing on the bottle or box.
• Tom Ford and Jo Malone: Niche perfume brands are also often counterfeited, and you can find copies that only vaguely resemble the original in smell and longevity.

When purchasing products from these brands, it is extremely important to use authenticity verification services or other available verification methods.