People should think twice before buying counterfeit goods, as Staffordshire’s Trading Standards highlights the serious safety risks that fake products can pose.
As well as helping fund organised criminal gangs, counterfeit goods pose serious dangers to buyers. Many counterfeit items are manufactured without proper safety testing or quality controls, meaning they can fail unexpectedly and put people at risk of injury, illness or worse.
Common counterfeit products can often be found at car boot sales, local markets, through social media and online. They include:
- Unsafe electrical items – Counterfeit chargers, batteries, plugs and extension leads may not meet safety standards and can overheat, short circuit, cause electric shocks or catch fire.
- Counterfeit children's toys – Fake toys can contain toxic paints and harmful chemicals, while poorly made small parts can break off and create choking hazards for young children.
- Fake sunglasses – Often fail to provide adequate UV protection. Dark lenses without proper filters can increase exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays, potentially damaging eyesight.
- Fake cosmetics, perfumes and sunscreen – These products may contain unsafe ingredients that can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, burns or infections. Counterfeit sunscreen may also fail to provide the protection claimed on the label.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said:
"Counterfeit goods might look convincing, but they can pose very real dangers.
“Fake products often bypass safety checks designed to protect consumers. What appears to be a cheap deal could end up causing real, serious injury. And remember, counterfeiting helps fund organised crime.
“If you are heading off to a car boot sale over the bank holiday weekend, be vigilant and don’t get caught out by fakes. I’d always encourage people to buy from trusted retailers and be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.”
People can report the sale of illegal goods on the confidential helpline on 01785 330356 or on the Trading Standards webpage.
