Bought a fake? You can get your money back

A fake of a known brand is not just a cheaper item. Selling counterfeits is a crime, and if you bought a fake you have a right to your money back.

Selling counterfeits is a crime

Under section 92 of the Trade Marks Act 1994, anyone who — with a view to gain and without the brand owner's consent — puts a registered mark on goods, or sells, offers or holds for sale goods bearing such a sign, commits a criminal offence. This covers street stalls and online marketplaces alike.

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If you bought a fake

You were promised a genuine branded item and sold a fake — so the goods are not as described. Under consumer law you can seek a refund from the seller. Keep the listing, messages, packaging and photos.

What to do

1. Ask the seller for a refund; on a marketplace, open a dispute with your evidence.
2. If you paid by card, ask your bank about a chargeback.
3. Report the seller to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice.

Be careful

A suspiciously low price, poor packaging or an odd seller are common signs of a fake. Importing fakes is risky too — Border Force can seize them. And selling counterfeits yourself breaks the law.

Source: section 92 of the Trade Marks Act 1994. Checked 26 October 2026.