A New Tool for Detecting Counterfeit Goods

Fashion, cosmetics, toys, and electronics are among the everyday products affected by counterfeiting. The INPI and UNIFAB have partnered to provide a free detection tool at counterfeit.fr, helping consumers identify fake goods before purchase. The initiative is a reminder that counterfeiting violates intellectual property protections, including trademarks, designs, and patents.

A Practical Tool for Better Identifying Counterfeit Goods

The free resource addresses four product categories: fashion and leather goods; cosmetics and perfumes; toys and games for children; and connected electronics and accessories.

Will You Be Able to Distinguish Truth from Falsehood?

Fashion and leather goods: check the quality of the stitching, the finish, the printing of the logo, the labelling, and the packaging.

Cosmetics and perfumes: verify the batch numbers, the manufacturer information, the quality of the bottle, and the required labelling.

Toys and games: confirm the CE marking, the completeness of the instructions, the seller information, and the quality of the materials.

Electronics and connected accessories: identify the manufacturer references, the safety markings, the quality of the connectors, and the technical specifications.

Good Habits to Remember

Before making a purchase: check the manufacturer information, beware of unusually low prices, verify the markings and batch numbers, and consult the detection tool whenever in doubt.

The Role of the INPI in the French Anti-Counterfeiting System

Established in 2022, the French Anti-Counterfeiting System brings together stakeholders including CEIPI, CPME, the customs services, FIM, and UNIFAB to better understand and combat counterfeiting through dialogue, data analysis, and the development of tools.

Source: National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI), France, 2026-09-04. Original: https://www.inpi.fr/en/in-one/To-combat-counterfeiting--adopt-the-right-reflexes.