Samsung Galaxy S3 counterfeit hits the streets

by Bernard Sinai · Published September 8, 2012 · Updated March 20, 2017

Samsung Galaxy S3 counterfeits on the streets

Samsung Galaxy S3 counterfeits are already on the streets of Port Moresby.

The public in Port Moresby should be aware that individuals are going around selling counterfeit Samsung products for very cheap prices. I got a shock today as a young man approached me, trying to sell what appeared to be a Samsung Galaxy S3 for K200 (approximately US$66). He was even offering to lower the price to K150. The product looked like the real deal and I was tempted to buy it. However, a closer inspection showed its true colors.Counterfeit products are flooding the streets of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) capital and the authorities seem powerless to control it. Almost every major brand and product is available on the street markets for very cheap prices. This has prompted many budget strapped locals to buy the more affordable alternatives but missing out on the hyped features.Mind you, many people buy brand names because they offer features that give the user a unique experience. Unfortunately, many have and will be disappointed after purchasing off the streets. However, there are certain times when the real deal is offered on the streets.

How to tell if a product is counterfeit

It is very difficult to differentiate genuine from counterfeit. Don’t be fooled! If you are offered a brand product on the streets for cheap pricing, here is how you can tell if it’s a counterfeit.

Always inspect the product closely. Check the logos carefully. Many counterfeiters mimic actual logos but do not actually use the same logo. The brand name is also slightly changed. This is to avoid any infringement or fool the consumers. You should also check the actual operating system.

When I was inspecting the phone this man was selling. I could not tell it was Samsung Galaxy S3 counterfeit until I switched it on a saw the software. Unfortunately, it did not have that sleek and smooth feel that Androids have. Instead the icons were pixilated and the start-up was missing that S3 look and feel.

When inspecting, take your time. I’ve noticed seller become impatient when consumers take their time to inspect the products. This is mainly because they know that sooner or later the consumer will figure out that the product is counterfeit.

Better buying practice

To avoid any disappointments, the best thing is to follow some simple buying advice is never buy from the streets. There are many reasons against buying on the street market and they include the high chance of buying a counterfeit or a stolen product. You will also forfeit any protection like warranties.

When you buy from a licensed retailer, you are protected against any faults or bugs that may be found later on. The manufacturer and vendor is able to recall the product of they find it has defects that cannot be fixed with patches, and if you are unsure of the product then do not buy it.

You can find out more about the Samsung Galaxy S3 at www.samsung.com

Better safe than sorry

I recently told an aunt who had purchased what appeared to be a Nokia phone on the street that she should not be disappointed because she chose to buy the product knowing that the chances were it was counterfeit. It is advisable that you purchase from licensed dealers.

Like I always say, ‘It is better to be safe than sorry’ so buyers be very careful what you buy on the streets. It might be cheaper but you are going to get a product that is far below what you think in quality.