There are a few steps consumers can take to avoid purchasing counterfeit items. First, do your research so you know how much the item generally sells for, and where it’s distributed. If you run across a rock-bottom price, it’s a good idea to keep in mind that old chestnut about what it means when something seems to good to be true. If the item is being sold by a store or company that isn’t on the manufacturer’s list of distributors, be wary. Also be leery of eBay and private-seller sites like Craigslist; it’s not uncommon for faux goods to show up there. Finally, take a good look at the packaging. Does the printing on the outside look blurry, include a different language or otherwise appear “off?” Does the item itself look slightly different in size or shape? Do small details like engraving or stitching vary from what the real deal looks like? All could indicate that you’re looking at a fake.