Scam in ChinaShopping
Fake branded goods and copied media in China
How it works
Fake brand-name goods are widely available. Most music or software CDs and DVDs are unauthorised copies. You can lose money if you pay for these believing they are genuine.
Warning signs
- A foreign luxury brand is offered at a surprisingly low price.
- The seller cannot give reliable proof that the goods are genuine.
How to avoid it
- Use established brand shops for purchases where authenticity matters.
- Do not assume foreign branded goods should be cheaper in China.
- Avoid paying genuine-product prices for goods you cannot verify.
If it happens to you
Keep the goods, receipt and any authenticity claims. Ask for a refund and contact consumer protection if the goods were sold as genuine.
- Move somewhere safe. Avoid threats, physical arguments or chasing a thief.
- Stop further payments. Freeze stolen cards and secure affected payment or phone accounts.
- Save evidence: receipts, messages, payment records, vehicle details and the place and time. Collect evidence only when safe.
- Report the scam or theft to police on 110. For a suspicious phone call, use 96110 for scam enquiries.
- Ask your hotel for help explaining the problem. Contact your card issuer about disputed payments and your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you are detained.
- Ask for a police report or reference number. Keep copies for your bank, insurer and any follow-up complaint.
Questions
What is the fake branded goods and copied media scam in China?
Fake brand-name goods are widely available. Most music or software CDs and DVDs are unauthorised copies. You can lose money if you pay for these believing they are genuine.
How can I spot it early?
A foreign luxury brand is offered at a surprisingly low price. The seller cannot give reliable proof that the goods are genuine.
How do I avoid fake branded goods and copied media in China?
Use established brand shops for purchases where authenticity matters. Do not assume foreign branded goods should be cheaper in China. Avoid paying genuine-product prices for goods you cannot verify.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the goods, receipt and any authenticity claims. Ask for a refund and contact consumer protection if the goods were sold as genuine.
Where in China does this happen?
Markets and shops across China.
How common is this scam in China?
Common. China is generally safe for visitors, and violent street crime is rare. Tourist scams and theft still happen, especially around busy sights, transport hubs and crowds. Watch for taxi overcharging, invitations that lead to expensive purchases, fake goods and pickpockets.
Are there similar scams in China?
Yes: fake antiques, student or artist exhibition invitations.
Who can I report it to?
Public security police: call 110 to report a scam or theft. Give your location, what happened and any evidence. Ask hotel staff for language help if needed. Scam enquiry service: call 96110 to enquire about suspicious phone calls. Police may also use this number with an area-code prefix to warn about possible scams. Consumer Protection: call 12315 about a consumer dispute, such as a misleading sale or disputed business charge. Keep the receipt and details of the business. Anti-corruption reporting service: call 12388 to report a bribe demand. Hotel doorman or front desk: ask for help if a taxi seriously overcharges you on the way to your hotel. Show the receipt, driver's ID or number plate details. Card issuer or payment provider: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a stolen card, report an unauthorised payment or ask about disputing a charge. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help after passport theft or detention. If detained, politely request consular access and a translator.
What number do I call in an emergency in China?
Police; report scams and theft: 110, Ambulance / EMS: 120, Fire Department: 119, Traffic Police; merged with 110 in some cities: 122, Scam enquiry: 96110.
Reviewed by @snuck