Counterfeiters are taking shortcuts and producing phony e-cigarettes in an attempt to trick customers. Most vape knockoffs are disposable—draw-activated, pre-filled, and ready-to-use. Many companies include a scratch-off sticker on their packaging, which reveals whether the vape pen is real or fake. However, some brands don't offer verification technology, making customers wonder if they're puffing on the real thing or just an imposter. Here, we provide instructions to verify vapes that have not implemented authentication technology.
Vape Verification Steps
The best way to verify your vape's authenticity is by scratching off the sticker on most e-cigarette packages. However, some companies don't offer this helpful resource. Fortunately, there are other ways to confirm legitimacy.
- Check to see if there's a scratch-off sticker that reveals an authentication or QR code
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If there is no authentication label, follow these steps
- Confirm serial number
- Consider retailer credibility
- Pay attention to taste
- Examine the packaging and design
- Consider pricing
Check the Serial Number
All legitimate vape brands include a serial number on the package. If there's no serial number, it's undoubtedly fake. Once you locate the serial number, send it to the official manufacturer to confirm authenticity.
Choose a Reputable Online Vape Store
Only purchase from credible companies. Smoke shops are infamous for selling fake e-cigs. Physical stores can get away with cutting corners and stocking counterfeits because they typically don't have the same exposure as top online retailers. Here are a few things to consider to help you determine if your smoke shop sells legit products.
- Are they taking measures to prevent minors from purchasing?
- Do they provide authentication instructions?
- Do they have any product reviews?
- Do they offer a satisfaction guarantee?
- Are they focused on educating their customers?
Taste Test
Counterfeiters are lazy, which may affect flavor quality. You might have a counterfeit if the vapor flavor tastes weird, burnt, or diminishes too quickly. Be mindful and pay attention to any e-juice flavor inconsistencies.
Packaging and Design
Legit vape companies are consistent when it comes to packaging and design. If the text or images are pixelated, visit the official brand's website to see if your vape's packaging looks off.
Price Check
If the pricing is too good to be true, proceed with caution. The primary motivation for stores selling fake vapes is cost savings. Although a lower price may be intriguing, it's not worth the potential risk of inhaling vapor from counterfeited products.
Counterfeit E-Cigarette Dangers
Even authentic vapes come with health risks, including respiratory issues. Most of these dangers are attributed to the inclusion of synthetic vape chemicals, according to science. If legit companies are using artificial additives, one can only imagine what's inside fake vapes.
Legal & Quality Considerations
It's safe to assume unethical counterfeiters aren't applying proper quality control measures when manufacturing e-cigarettes, which is why many of these products are defective. Additionally, certain regions will take legal action against those who own or purchase counterfeit vaporizers—another reason why understanding how to avoid fakes is essential.
Avoid Fake Vapes
We strive to cover important vape topics that aren't being given enough attention, including alternative verification methods when a product lacks clear authentication instructions. If you're concerned about a potential counterfeit, try reaching out directly to the official brand. If they don't respond, contact Nic Free Vape Pens, and we'll do our best to assist, even if you didn't purchase it from us.