How to Quickly Spot Fake Versions of Popular Products

Branded items often come with a hefty price tag, so discovering that we’ve spent a significant amount on a low-quality replica can be incredibly frustrating. Not only do counterfeit products wear out and break down more quickly, but they can also present potential risks. That’s why we’ve put together some tips to help you identify a fake before making a purchase.

YSL handbags

One of the most distinctive features of the bags from this renowned brand is its metal logo. Counterfeit manufacturers often overlook key details when attempting to replicate it. For example, the right side of the letter “Y” should be thinner than the left, the “S” should gradually thicken towards the middle, and the “L” should widen from the angle to the tips.

The positioning of the letters is also crucial. On an authentic bag, the “S” sits beneath the left vertex of the “Y,” crosses the right vertex, and then tucks under the “Y” again to intertwine with the “L.” In counterfeit items, this intricate weave is often executed incorrectly. Additionally, if the original bag features a chain strap, the links should lie flat.

iPhone

To verify the authenticity of your phone, you need to know the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI). On an iPhone, this information can be obtained by dialing *#06#. Then you should compare this number with the one on the box. If the numbers don’t match, most likely, you hold a cheap copy in your hands.

Some sellers play tricks and offer original devices, but not new ones, but those that have already been repaired. You hardly want to pay a significant amount of money for an iPhone that has previously been found defective. To find out the history of the device, it’s enough to look at its identification number again. The letter “M” at the beginning indicates that the phone is brand new. The letter “F” means that it has been restored.

Chanel bags

Chanel bags are renowned not only for their exceptional design and top-tier materials but also for the meticulous attention to detail that the brand puts into every aspect of its products. One of the key elements of these bags is the consistency in the color of the metal fittings. Whether it’s the exterior or the inner components, all the metal pieces on a Chanel bag are made from metal that matches the overall color of the bag. This consistency reflects the brand’s commitment to quality and elegance.

Another important detail is the logo clasp. On authentic Chanel bags, the clasp is securely attached with screws that have a distinctive star-shaped head. Older bags may feature flat screws, but if you come across a bag with cross-shaped screws, it’s a red flag indicating that the item is likely a counterfeit. The logo itself is another indicator of authenticity. The letters of the logo should be raised and three-dimensional, contributing to its premium look and feel. Any deviation from this standard can be a sign that the bag is not a genuine Chanel product. These subtle, yet crucial, details are part of what makes Chanel bags stand out as symbols of luxury and craftsmanship.

The Ordinary products

The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% peeling solution is a widely popular product that is frequently counterfeited. To spot a counterfeit, one key detail to consider is the scent. An authentic product has a distinct tart fragrance, whereas a fake version may have a sweet or soapy smell.

When examining the label of a product like Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, look for any spelling mistakes, misalignments, or inconsistencies. Genuine products feature perfectly aligned labels with no such flaws. Ensure that the graphics and text are centered, and check for consistency in the design elements throughout.

Here are 10 easy ways to spot counterfeit goods.

• Stitching — Authentic products usually have neat, straight stitching with more stitches per inch. Fake items tend to have less stitching and uneven lines because they’re cheaper to make.
• Fastenings — Pay attention to zippers and pulls, especially on bags and jackets. Counterfeit ones are often shiny, lightweight, and may chip over time. Real ones have a matte finish, feel heavier, and are easier to use.
• Logo — The logo on designer items should be perfect, with no missing details. Fakes often try to mimic the look but might have a poorly made or missing logo altogether.
• Buttons — When buying coats or shirts, check the buttons. Genuine brands engrave their name on the buttons, while counterfeit ones use cheap, unlabeled plastic that can be flimsy.
• Leather — Real leather has a slightly uneven texture and a strong smell, while fake leather feels smooth and even. Also, real leather doesn’t have a shiny finish, so if it’s glossy, it’s likely a fake.
• Spelling — Look for spelling errors, especially on logos and tags. Even the best fakes sometimes misspell brand names or other details.
• Fabric — Authentic items are made with high-quality, durable fabrics. If the fabric feels light, cheap, or has visible pulls, rips, or faded color, it’s probably fake.
• Packaging — Genuine products come with high-quality packaging that fits the item perfectly. If the packaging feels flimsy or lacks branding details like tissue paper or drawstring bags, it’s likely a counterfeit.
• Prices — If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Designer brands rarely offer big discounts, so if you find something for 75% off, it’s likely a fake.
• Supplementary Materials — Real products, especially tech, should come with manuals, instructions, and extra accessories. Counterfeit items might be missing these or lack any additional pieces.

And here’s another set of valuable tips to help you easily identify fake products. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, these guidelines will help you steer clear of counterfeit items and make more informed purchasing decisions.