January 2008
What you can do
The easiest way to avoid counterfeits is to deal with reputable retailers authorized to sell a manufacturer's products. Be
suspicious of third-party Web sites that offer deep discounts for products that are usually pricey. The auction site eBay
said it has been the target of lawsuits and threatened lawsuits from the likes of Rolex, Louis Vuitton, and Christian Dior
for, in part, not doing enough to banish fake goods. Manufacturer sites typically include a list of authorized resellers or
a phone number to call for that information. Other tips:
- Think twice before buying at deep-discount and dollar stores, which have been sources of fake holiday lights, extension cords,
toothpaste, and batteries.
- Avoid no-name products. A manufacturer's name and address is no guarantee of safety, but at least it lets you contact the
company to try to remedy problems.
- Don't buy if the seller won't provide a receipt or if warranty data is missing.
- Inspect labels and packaging. Missing or expired "use by" dates, broken or missing safety seals, misspellings, or unfamiliar
or flimsy packaging for big-name brands should send up a warning flag.
- For electrical goods, look for the UL safety mark. A silver holographic seal is required on decorative lighting made worldwide
and on fans, other lighting, and the like made in China. Various other electrical products should include a circled "UL,"
the word "Listed," and a number of four or six digits. If you suspect a phony label, contact UL, at www.ul.com.
- It's especially hard to tell whether car parts are authentic. Use a mechanic who has been reliable or a new one who has been
recommended to you.
- If you suspect you've unwittingly purchased fake goods, contact the manufacturer. Many company Web sites have a link for reporting suspected fakes. Some sites, such as Callaway Golf, spell out exactly how to spot knockoffs.
