iPhone fans in the UAE are being urged to be wary of counterfeit gadgets that are being sold in the markets.
The Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA) issued a series of advisories on Tuesday, cautioning consumers against falling prey to fraudsters selling fake iPhones.
Cheap imitations of Apple’s latest offerings – iPhone 6 and 6 Plus – have hit the market, with many consumers complaining of being duped.
TRA said in a statement that its officials conducted an investigation into reports of illegal and counterfeit iPhone 6 handsets on sale in the UAE.
“As a result of the investigation, a series of counterfeit iPhone 6 handsets have been confiscated from various locations across the UAE. Based on the investigation, the TRA has issued a series of recommendations to the public to generate awareness of the trade of such illegal devices and to prevent their purchase,” a TRA official said in a statement.
With the demand for the new iPhones reaching a frenzy, the fraudsters selling fake iPhones are having a field day.
“This move from the TRA is part of the strategy that seeks to prevent the sale of unlicensed goods and protect the interests of the consumer. The raids come following the increasing demand from the UAE public for the iPhone 6 handsets,” said the official.
A leading mobile phone dealer in Dubai’s wholesale market for electronic goods in Deira confirmed that the marked has been infested by fake items and consumers need to be extra cautious.
“We are aware of the situation and how people fall for these fake iPhones. In fact, it’s not just fake iPhones, counterfeit copies of most brands are available in the market and it is a cause for concern. People should be aware that if the deal is too good to be true than there is something fishy,” said Tayyab Bajwa, Sales Manager of Engelberge Electronics.
Highlighting what to look out for while buying an iPhone, another retailer said: “A counterfeit product will never be the same quality as the original one, if you look closely it becomes obvious. Always ask for an original receipt and warranty when buying the phone and also ask to open the box.”
Men trying to sell mobile phones on the streets of Deira and Bur Dubai is a common sight and authorities have urged the public not to purchase any goods from strangers on the street.
