Combat counterfeiting: Protect your community and yourself

By Office of the Provost Marshal General, Law Enforcement DivisionOctober 26, 2023

(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Counterfeiting is a serious issue that affects not only money, but also products and merchandise. Counterfeit products are often cheap imitations of trusted brands that fund criminal enterprises, harm the economy, deceive customers, and pose safety hazards.

To avoid buying counterfeit merchandise, here are a few questions to keep in mind:

  • Does the price seem too good to be true?
  • Are reviews verified and seem genuine?
  • Do the product photos look professional or appear to be stock photos?
  • Are there any grammatical or spelling errors in the product description?
  • Do the business name and shipping location look suspicious?
  • Is sales tax calculated?

If you suspect a counterfeit product, contact the known brand manufacturer and report where you purchased it and your concerns. Doing so can help protect yourself and others from fraud and criminal activity.