How to Spot Counterfeit Products: A Security Expert's Checklist

Counterfeits are not just illegal - they are dangerous. I have seen fake chargers catch fire, counterfeit cosmetics cause chemical burns, and fake supplements land people in hospitals. Here is how to protect yourself.

Red Flag #1: Price Too Good to Be True

If Nike Air Jordans retail for $200 and someone offers them for $60 brand new, they are fake. Period.

• Research market value - check 10+ sold listings
• Fakes typically priced 50-70% below authentic
• Authentic sellers cannot afford to discount 80%
• Exception: Damaged/used items can be deeply discounted

Red Flag #2: Seller Location Mismatch

Check the item location vs where it is shipping from:

• Shipping from China for US authentic Nike - obvious fake
• Long shipping times (20-40 days) indicate overseas fakes
• Authentic products ship domestically within 7 days max
• Use eBay Item location filter - select your country only

Red Flag #3: Suspicious Photos

Professional counterfeiters steal authentic photos. Look for these tells:

• Stock photos or photos from brand websites - not their actual item
• Photos with different backgrounds/lighting - stolen from multiple sources
• Watermarks from other websites - copied listings
• No photos of serial numbers, tags, or authentication marks
• Blurry photos hiding quality issues

If you cannot see serial numbers, authentication tags, and detailed close-ups, assume it is fake until proven otherwise.

Authentication Checklist: Nike Shoes

• Check SKU on box matches SKU on size tag inside shoe
• Stitching should be tight, even, and straight - fakes have messy stitching
• Smell test - authentic shoes do not have chemical/glue smell
• Swoosh should be smooth and precise - fake swooshes are often crooked
• UPC barcode scan should match exact product when searched

Authentication Checklist: Apple Products

• Check serial number at Apple website - fakes show invalid
• Weight test - fakes are usually lighter (cheap materials)
• Lightning port should be perfectly centered and flush
• iOS devices: Check Settings > General > About - should show correct model
• AirPods: Connect to iPhone - real ones show battery animation

What to Do If You Bought a Fake

Do not panic. You are protected:

• Open eBay case within 30 days - select Item not as described
• Upload photos showing it is counterfeit
• eBay sides with buyers 95% of the time on fakes
• Full refund including return shipping
• Report seller to eBay - they take counterfeits seriously

Last month, I helped a student get a $300 refund for fake AirPods Pro. eBay refunded him fully AND let him keep the fakes (they cannot be resold). Always report fakes - you are protecting future buyers.