As e-commerce continues to flourish in Bangladesh, many shoppers are increasingly turning to online platforms like Daraz for their purchases. While the convenience is unmatched, the rise in counterfeit products poses a significant threat. This article delves into the perils of counterfeit goods and offers practical advice to help Bangladeshi consumers make informed decisions when shopping online.

The Perils of Counterfeit Products
In May 2025, Farhan Ahmed a DU student encountered an issue that many online shoppers dread. He ordered a high-quality laptop backpack from Daraz, from a brand known for its durability and customer satisfaction. However, within a few months, the bag’s straps began to fray, and the zippers malfunctioned.

Suspecting a defect, Farhan contacted the brand’s customer service, only to receive an unsettling reply: “Your backpack is not an authentic product. It is an imitation and does not fall under our warranty.”

This revelation left Farhan perplexed. He had purchased the bag from what he believed to be a reputable seller on Daraz. However, his experience highlighted a growing issue on many e-commerce platforms: the proliferation of counterfeit products.

Understanding the Problem
Over 70% of Daraz’s sales come from third-party sellers. This model allows for a wide variety of products, but it also opens the door for counterfeit items. While Daraz implements measures to detect and prevent the sale of fake goods, some items inevitably slip through the cracks.

How to Avoid Counterfeit Products on Daraz
To safeguard against counterfeit items, Bangladeshi consumers can take several proactive steps:

1. Verify the Seller
Before making a purchase, check who is selling the product. On Daraz, this information is usually listed near the “Add to Cart” button. Opt for items sold directly by Daraz or by verified, well-reviewed sellers.

2. Scrutinize Seller Ratings and Reviews
A seller’s ratings and reviews can provide valuable insights into their reliability. Be wary of sellers with numerous one-star reviews or comments about counterfeit products and poor customer service. Sellers with a large number of positive reviews are generally more trustworthy.

3. Look for Product Authenticity Tags
Many brands and authorized sellers use authenticity tags and certifications on their listings. Look for these tags when purchasing high-value items.

4. Report Suspicious Items
If you suspect an item is counterfeit, report it to Daraz’s customer service immediately. Not only can you potentially receive a refund, but you also help prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.

Real-World Impact
For Rahim, his unfortunate experience served as a wake-up call. “I learned the hard way that not all products on Daraz are genuine. Now, I’m much more cautious and make sure to check the seller’s details and reviews thoroughly before making any purchase,” he shared.

Rahim’s story is not unique. Many consumers across Bangladesh have faced similar issues, underscoring the need for greater vigilance when shopping online.

Enhancing Consumer Protection
To better protect consumers, e-commerce platforms like Daraz can implement more stringent verification processes for third-party sellers. Regular audits, enhanced AI-driven monitoring systems, and stricter penalties for those caught selling counterfeit goods could significantly reduce the prevalence of fake products.

Furthermore, educating consumers about the risks of counterfeit products and providing clear guidelines on how to identify and report them can empower shoppers to make safer choices.

The convenience of online shopping should not come at the cost of quality and authenticity. By taking the time to verify sellers, read reviews, and report suspicious items, Bangladeshi consumers can enjoy the benefits of e-commerce while minimizing the risk of counterfeit products. As the market continues to grow, a collaborative effort between consumers, sellers, and platforms like Daraz will be crucial in maintaining a trustworthy online shopping environment.