
Counterfeit phones may also differ from a genuine in colour availability, memory capacity, camera megapixels, screen quality and operating system. For example, built-in cameras might be said to be 8 megapixel when they are not - or offer GPS when they don't. Counterfeit phones also often appear to offer features that are either just not there or that are not as they are said to be. Check the model number and technical specifications of the genuine phone you wish to buy and ensure they match what is being offered.

If you are able to view the product in person you may be able to notice a difference in weight, screen size, location of buttons and battery, quality of printing and paint finish, added or missing functions, quality control stickers and holograms and an overall lack of quality.Ĭounterfeit phones can have differing features to genuine models, such as dual SIM cards, analogue TV etc. Counterfeiters are able to mimic design details down to minute details making it difficult to tell if a phone is genuine.

On closer comparison you may be able to identify some obvious differences between a genuine and a fake such as: the colour, location of buttons, size or spelling of the brand name. On first glance a counterfeit phone may appear identical to a genuine model. Once you have this information it will make the job of identifying a fake much easier.

Information about a specific model of phone can be found on the manufacturer’s website or through a registered retailer. Before committing to a purchase you should know the phone's specific model number, available colours, features, what software and hardware comes included and what warranty is offered with the product. You should only buy a phone made by a trusted manufacturer. It is important to do a little research before buying a new phone. Here are a few simple tips to help you identify whether a phone is genuine or fake: Yet with the prevalence of internet shopping and auction websites this may not be an option. When possible it is always preferable to buy a phone through a registered retailer or reseller who can vouch for a phone's authenticity.

The phone's outer shell and screen, the printed logos and branding, the packaging and the included accessories can all be copied, making it difficult to identify whether a phone is fake or genuine. Counterfeit mobile phone manufacturers imitate all facets of a branded phone’s appearance to make their products appear genuine.
