Fake fashion
Increasingly criminals are producing and selling convincing fakes in such a way that people can’t always tell they’ve bought one until it’s too late.
But the problems caused by fake fashion goods can be more serious than just discovering what you’ve bought isn’t the real deal.
Buying fake fashion items:
- Puts you at risk of fraud and identity theft.
- Could leave you with low quality goods that break, and with no way to get your money back.
- Could cause you harm if the materials used are unsafe or aren’t what they claim to be.
- Funds crimes including prostitution and drug smuggling.
If you know who’s dealing in fakes, contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through our secure online form.
Where fake fashion is sold and how to spot it
WHERE FAKES ARE SOLD
The majority of fake fashion goods are sold online through websites based outside the UK and through auction sites.
Fake fashion items are also sold at:
- Markets
- Car boot sales
- Some shops
- Purse parties
- By street sellers
HOW TO SPOT FAKES
Fake fashion items can be difficult to spot because they are often sold online. The following tips don't guarantee goods are genuine but they could help you from being duped into buying a fake.
- If buying goods in person check the quality of the item including the materials used, the stitching and tags. Fake items are often made of lower quality material.
- Think about where you are buying the item. For example, high fashion bags will only be sold in their own stores or high end department stores and not at home purse parties.
- Check the logo on the product - is it correct and up to date? Compare it against the logo on the brand's official website if you’re not sure.
- Ensure the item is a legitimate style from the designer. Try checking the brand's website to confirm that the style exists.
- If you are buying from an online auction site check the seller's feedback.
- If the price of a fashion item is too good to be true then it probably is. That said some criminals deliberately sell fakes at close to the cost of authentic products to help convince people their goods are real.
If you are buying goods online read our shopping online tips.
