Too good to be true? SA shoppers warned of counterfeit goods on online shopping sites
It seems like the deal of the day. But here's the catch: what looks like a bargain might actually be a fake.
South African shoppers are increasingly being duped into buying counterfeit goods online, especially when it comes to well-known local brands or luxury products.
And while they may look convincing, these fakes not only mislead consumers but also harm the brands they imitate.
How online marketplaces operate
It's important for consumers to understand how these online marketplaces operate. Platforms such as Temu, Amazon, and Takealot don't sell the goods themselves - they serve as digital storefronts for third-party sellers from across the globe.
Where Temu differs is that it offers a more direct route from overseas manufacturers, many of which specialise in knock-offs, straight to the South African buyer.
According to a recent report by MyBroadband, a South African shopper noticed listings on Temu that appeared to offer merchandise from brands at heavily discounted prices.
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