Consumers buying smartphones may unknowingly purchase counterfeit devices at Ikeja Computer Village in Lagos, believing they have acquired high-quality products.
This issue is common with Android smartphones, which are often cloned from genuine models using inferior materials and technology.
To help buyers avoid falling victim to these scams, here are key indicators to watch for when purchasing a smartphone:
1. Branding and Logos
Examine the branding and logos closely. Authentic devices feature high-quality prints and proper documentation.
Look for incorrect logos, blurry images, these are common signs of counterfeit products.
2. Screen Quality
A wide dark gap between the display screen and the phone's edge may indicate a fake device.
3. IMEI Number Verification
The IMEI number is crucial for verifying a phone's authenticity. You can find this number in the phone's settings or on its packaging.
Dialing *#06# will display the IMEI; you can then verify it at Imei.info. If the information does not match, the phone is likely counterfeit.
4. Camera Button Placement
Authentic Android phones have specific placements for camera buttons, typically located on the right side.
5. Software and User Interface
Once powered on, check that the phone runs official software versions and offers a seamless user experience.
6. Price Discrepancies
A lower price than market value should raise red flags.
7. Retailer Reputation
Buy from reputable retailers or authorized dealers to minimize the risk of acquiring counterfeit products.
Additional Verification Techniques
To further confirm a smartphone's authenticity, you can use specific codes that reveal various device details:
Dialing #1234# displays firmware information.
Entering *##1472365## accesses GPS test settings.
Using ##197328640## opens the service mode main menu.
The code ##4636## reveals diagnostic settings.
Lastly, #0# initiates general test mode.
If these codes do not yield any results, it is likely that the device is counterfeit.
