Counterfeits, from clothes to bags to accessories, are everywhere. It is worrying to note that they are often a hit to the public who will opt for a cheaper alternative. This current attitude of consumers towards fakes (also known as replicas, copies or knockoffs) is quite alarming. Though some feel cheated if they unknowingly buy a replica for they only want the real thing, this group is gradually becoming the minority. A large portion of consumers now are apathetic with regards to the genuineness of a product. A growing number even patronize fakes, most probably because they are well crafted to the point that it would take a while before you can even spot the difference. Such is the case, that consumer demand for counterfeits caught international attention and resulted to legal measures to curtail it.



The Counterfeit Effect.

Counterfeiting is estimated to account for over 7% of world trade, and may be as high as 10%. It is a global operation with no respect for international borders. It is increasingly becoming a sophisticated and organized crime. To combat product counterfeiting and piracy, organizations and task groups have been formed.

Buying counterfeits, like fake handbags, may not seem significant to the individual buyer, but it is definitely illegal and would empower organized crimes. It is even alleged that designer handbag knockoffs are lined with drugs and used for smuggling. Hence, consumers are encouraged to be more responsible in product-buying. Convenience, availability and lower price rates should be considered hand in hand with health, social and economic consequences.

Each small step will come a long way.

If each and every consumer will do his or her share in increasing awareness regarding the purchase of counterfeits, this damaging problem will decelerate. A consumer or potential buyer could:

• Closely examine the material of the product. A counterfeit would cost way lower than that of the original, being made of inferior material.

• Buy a designer handbag at the company stores or major department stores. Authorized dealers do not sell these items on online auctions. And if one does shop online, it is suggested that he/she read the fine print to evaluate if the written description indicate an original product. Our links sells authentic designer items which range from handbags, shoes, luggage, wallets, and a whole lot of other items. If you want to check out items online this is the site to visit.

• Inspect if the bag has a tag indicating where it was made.

• Call the designer directly if one is still doubtful of the product.

A more personal challenge posed to the consumer is a lifestyle evaluation. If one has the financial capacity to buy designer hand bags or products, then he or she may at least exert some effort to guarantee its authenticity. It wouldn't hurt to follow the suggestions mentioned above. The greater challenge is thrown at those who have tight budgets. If one so desires to buy a designer product, the reasons which have led to such a desire (quality, reputation, and exclusivity) should be borne in mind, especially if one is tempted to buy a counterfeit. Bluntly said, if one cannot afford, then one should not buy. Another way of saying it is “living within one's means.”

To be critically aware of one's buying habits will do wonders beyond any individual's projection. Awareness and decisive acts will not only boost the local economy but will eventually ripple to global development. So if you see a fake, don't buy it. It won't do anyone any good, anyway.