Electronics

Ways to identify counterfeit electronics and digital media before purchasing. Articles cover authentication of phones, software, gaming products, and potential safety risks.

A Real iPod or a Knock-Off?

How to spot fake iPods by checking the screen, controls, and other design details that counterfeiters consistently get wrong.

Can Your Trust a Download?

Many downloads contain hidden malware and trojans that can steal your data, even from trusted-looking websites.

Counterfeit Batteries Do Cause a Problem

Counterfeit batteries can cause fires, explosions and serious injuries because they lack safety features and are made with cheap, dangerous materials.

Counterfeit Electrical Goods and Home Safety

Counterfeit electrical goods sold online and at markets can lack safety testing and put your home at serious fire risk.

Counterfeit Video Games: Beware of the Fakes

Counterfeit video games flood the market when demand is high, so watch for suspiciously low prices and other red flags before you buy.

Fake Apple Items

Police seized $10 million worth of fake Apple products that looked real but lacked the actual software to run them.

How the Software Industry Is Fighting Counterfeits

Software companies are raising prices to fight counterfeits, mostly made in Asia, while dealing with corruption and varying government cooperation.

Information on Big Brand Fakes

Counterfeit goods are harder to spot than you think, but Trading Standards and consumer watchdogs can help you avoid fakes.

Pirated CDs: Is There a Problem?

One-third of CDs sold worldwide are pirated, cutting artists and labels out of profits while criminal organisations rake in billions.

Pirating E-books

E-book piracy is growing as digital reading expands, with pirates either scanning physical copies or cracking retailer security codes.

Spotting a Fake DVD

Counterfeit DVDs are harder to spot than ever, but unusually low prices, missing cases and films still in cinemas are telltale signs of fakes.

Spotting Counterfeit Software

How to spot fake software before you accidentally buy it and avoid the security risks that come with counterfeits.

The Trade in Fake Mobile Phones

Counterfeit phones from China look nearly identical to real ones but perform far worse, and they make up a huge chunk of the global mobile market.