The police have been targetting websites selling fake luxury goods and have taken down over 5000 such sites since last October. They also issued some guidance:
- Check the spelling and grammar on the website, as well as the URL - people running such sites often do not pay a lot of attention to that
- Look to see where the trader is based and whether they provide a postal address - just because the web address contains "UK", do not assume the seller is based there
- Only deal with reputable sellers - use sites that you know or which have been recommended to you. Check online reviews if you have not bought from the seller before.
- Check the website is a legitimate stockist by visiting brand-i.org
- Ensure the website address begins "https", which indicates it is secure
- Don't access links in unsolicited emails; always type in the website address or use a search engine to find a site.