By Katherine Watson

One of the most difficult problems that governments in developed countries face is the proliferation of counterfeit products in their markets. From designer clothing to consumer electronics to drugs, fake products can be found in the streets of major cities and even the shelves of supermarkets. Here are some tips to avoid buying counterfeit products.

  • Shop at reputable and authorized retailers.  With so many counterfeit products flooding the market, fake goods can still make their way into the shelves of supermarkets and department stores. However, large retailers are less likely to carry fake products than small retailers. Similarly, dollar stores and discount stores are likely places to find counterfeit products because they specialize in selling cheap goods.
  • Be wary when shopping online.  Many sellers of counterfeit products advertise their wares in online marketplaces and auction sites. As such, when you are shopping in Amazon or eBay, be extra careful.  Check the seller's ratings and reviews. If the seller has positive feedback, then you can safely assume that the seller has authentic products to sell. Also make sure that you can contact the seller through the contact details provided.
  • Do not buy from street vendors. Many replicas of designer clothes, accessories, watches, perfumes, and cosmetics are being sold off the streets by illegal vendors at very low prices. Although they are excellent imitations of the original, they are still counterfeit products and should not be patronized. More importantly, you are risking your health by buying fake cosmetics and perfumes. You are not entirely sure if those products passed quality tests and are safe for human consumption. Using them might pose danger to your health.
  • Read product labels when shopping. When buying food stuff in supermarkets, check the product packaging and the writings on it. If you see misspellings, layout errors, and poorly designed logos, then there is a high probability that that product is a fake. Similarly, if the name brand or product name sounds suspiciously like an original product, then you can write that product off as a counterfeit product.
  • Avoid buying brand name products in flea markets and fairs. These temporary markets are excellent sources of homemade products that are often unique or limited in quantity. If you see too much of one brand name product, it is most likely a counterfeit product.
  • Do not go for unknown generic brands. Free trade agreements have made generic drugs cheap and easily accessible to the public. Be wary of buying generic drugs from small pharmacies because these are likely targets for distributors of fake drugs and medical supplies. If you must buy generic products, stick to the brands that you know. You can go online and check government web sites for legitimate generic drug brands.

Not buying counterfeit products ensures your health and helps support legitimate business in your country. Take you consumer ethics to the next level by reporting suspected sellers of counterfeit products. This will help you government fight piracy and counterfeiting.