Technology
Automation
Authenticity check
Are you unsure whether a product is genuine? Authenticity verification is crucial for identifying counterfeits and avoiding financial losses. We show you how to proceed and which technologies can assist you in this process. Do you need support with the implementation of authenticity verification procedures? Contact us for personalised advice.
The authenticity check is essential to protect against counterfeits and avoid financial loss, especially when purchasing luxury goods and collectibles.
Various methods such as digital authenticity verification, eBay authenticity verification, and multi-layered security features offer a wide range of possibilities to verify the authenticity of products. Customer satisfaction can be increased by up to 30% as a result.
Technological innovations such as artificial intelligence and blockchain will further enhance security and transparency in trade and significantly improve the efficiency of authenticity verification.
In a world where product piracy is on the rise, authenticity verification has become essential. It serves as a shield against counterfeits and fraud, both for buyers and sellers. But what exactly is behind this term and why is it so important? Authenticity verification is the process of verifying whether a product is genuine and meets the manufacturer's standards. This is particularly crucial in industries such as luxury goods, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, where counterfeits are widespread and can cause significant economic damage.
The importance of authenticity verification is not only in financial protection. It also contributes to building trust between buyers and sellers. A certified, authentic product signals quality and reliability, which in turn strengthens customer loyalty. In addition, authentication can increase the value of a product, especially in the case of collectibles and luxury items. Companies like SCANLAB rely on multi-layered security features to protect their products from imitation. Therefore, the need to protect against counterfeits is of paramount importance in order to avoid financial losses and ensure trust in products and brands.
To protect effectively against counterfeits, it is important to understand the various aspects and methods of authenticity verification. We will now take a closer look at the different types of authenticity verification, from digital solutions for designer handbags to the complex procedures used by online marketplaces like eBay. This ensures that your investments are protected, and you always receive an authentic product. Our analysis of authenticity verification offers further insights.
The market for second-hand designer handbags is booming, but with it grows the threat of counterfeits. A study shows that 96% of buyers of pre-owned designer handbags value an authenticity check. This underscores the need to implement reliable methods for authentication. One solution is digital authenticity verification, which enables users to quickly and easily verify the authenticity of a handbag. Companies like Echtheitscheck.de specialise in this service and offer a quick verification within 48 hours.
Digital authenticity verification is based on sending photos of the handbag. Experts analyse these images and compare them with reference databases and characteristics of authentic products. Upon successful verification, an authenticity certificate is issued, providing the buyer with added assurance. This service supports a variety of brands, including Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Celine, Chanel, Chloé, Coach, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Givenchy, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, MCM, Prada, Saint Laurent, Salvatore Ferragamo and Valentino. The option to finance the authenticity verification via PayPal adds to the service's appeal.
An important aspect of digital authenticity verification is the VAT treatment according to § 25a of the UStG (differential taxation). Since these are often used goods, VAT is not charged on the full sale price, but only on the difference between the purchase and sale price. This makes the buying and selling of second-hand designer handbags more economically attractive. Therefore, digital authenticity verification offers a fast, convenient, and secure way to protect against counterfeits and enhance trust in the trade of pre-owned luxury goods. For more information on avoiding counterfeits, see our article.
eBay has introduced the Authenticity Guarantee to provide buyers and sellers with greater security when trading high-value items. The program is automatically applied to eligible items and cannot be opted out of by sellers. Items participating in the Authenticity Guarantee are marked with a blue tick and the text "With Authenticity Guarantee". This indicates to the buyer that the item has been verified for authenticity by independent experts.
The Authenticity Guarantee at eBay covers various categories, including watches, sneakers, and handbags/luxury accessories. Each category has specific requirements, such as minimum prices (1800 EUR for watches, 100 EUR for sneakers, 500 EUR for handbags) and condition requirements. For watches, for example, customised models are excluded, while for sneakers, the condition of replacement parts is assessed, not their authenticity. Handbags must be from specific brands and must not be offered for local pickup or delivery to PO boxes. The eBay Authenticity Guarantee provides buyers with confidence when purchasing luxury items or collectibles.
Sellers whose items qualify for the Authenticity Guarantee must send them to the Authenticator's address specified by eBay. The Authenticator checks whether the item matches the listing description and conducts a physical inspection within two business days. If the authenticity cannot be confirmed or the item significantly deviates from the description, the buyer receives a refund, and the seller must cooperate in removing the item from the marketplace. Authenticated items are subject to the seller’s return policy and eBay's buyer protection. Returns are sent back to the Authenticator to verify condition and completeness before being returned to the seller. Items that pass authentication are shipped to the buyer with tracking and signature confirmation, providing additional protection and security for both parties. Our analysis of the role of certifications offers further insights.
The authenticity check on eBay involves a professional verification of the authenticity and accuracy of the item description. This service includes fast shipping with tracking and delivery confirmation, with eBay covering the costs of inspection and shipping. This demonstrates eBay's commitment to creating a safe and trustworthy trading environment. A key component of the authenticity check is the partnership with experts such as Stoll & Co., a company founded in 1982.
Stoll & Co. has experienced watchmakers and technicians who work in a modern facility in Germany with advanced technical equipment. These experts carefully verify the watches for their authenticity and ensure they meet eBay's high standards. The authenticity check is currently offered for new and pre-owned watches in the "wristwatches" category, which are sold for €1,800 or more as fixed-price or auction listings. Items with individual modifications, such as painted dials or aftermarket bezels, are excluded from the authenticity check. However, the replacement of parts such as bracelet links, straps, or glasses does not cause exclusion, provided any deviations from the original condition are stated in the item description.
The introduction of the authenticity check has significantly contributed to growth in the luxury watch segment on eBay. Trust among buyers and sellers has increased, and the elimination of selling fees for private sales in Germany has further boosted supply and demand. eBay is currently exploring the use of technologies like blockchain for the authenticity check and includes a card with a QR code with the authenticated watch, containing detailed information about the watch. Based on customer demand, eBay is considering expanding the authenticity check to other categories such as luxury handbags and sneakers in Germany, as well as trading cards and fine jewellery in the USA and UK. Artificial intelligence plays an increasingly significant role in the detection of counterfeits.
Alongside eBay, there are other providers who specialise in Authenticity Verification. Chronext, for example, offers a 17-stage Authentication Process for watches to ensure they are genuine. The specific procedures and criteria are detailed on the company’s website. Silber-Gold-Verkauf.de employs a combination of eddy current testing and gold weighing to ensure the Authenticity of gold and silver products with the highest security. The company notes that surface tests such as X-ray fluorescence analysis and acid testing alone are not sufficient to detect sophisticated tungsten counterfeits.
SCANLAB uses a multi-layered approach with open, semi-concealed, and concealed security features to combat product piracy. The company’s security labels integrate visual inspection, alphanumeric codes, and microscopic elements. A four-digit alphanumeric code combined with the 'Serial Moving Code' offers a first Authentication Level that can be verified without special equipment. A ten-digit micro-code, the 'Eclipse Effect', and the 'HDI' logo, all visible under magnification, form a second Authentication Level. The final level of security requires specialised analogue or digital laser readers. The combination of these various technologies makes it extremely difficult for counterfeiters to mimic SCANLAB’s products.
The various providers of Authenticity Verification demonstrate that there are different approaches and technologies available to ensure the Authenticity of products. Choosing the right provider depends on the type of product, individual needs, and desired security level. It is advisable to thoroughly research in advance and compare the various options to find the best solution for you. Our platform offers you a clear overview of different providers.
The authenticity verification faces a number of technological challenges. Counterfeiters are developing increasingly sophisticated methods to imitate products, necessitating constant adjustment of verification methods. New technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning can be employed to improve authenticity verification, but they can also be exploited by counterfeiters to create even more convincing counterfeits. Therefore, it is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and develop innovative solutions to detect counterfeits.
Economic aspects also play a significant role. The costs of authenticity verification can be substantial, especially for complex products or elaborate procedures. It is essential to find a balance between the costs and the benefits of authenticity verification. Companies must weigh how much they are willing to invest in authenticity verification to minimize the risk of counterfeits while remaining competitive. One way to reduce costs is by automating verification processes and utilizing standardized procedures.
Legal considerations are also important in authenticity verification. Companies bear a certain liability for incorrect decisions, such as falsely classifying a counterfeit product as genuine or vice versa. Additionally, they must protect the intellectual property of their products and ensure that their authenticity verification procedures do not violate applicable laws. Effective protection of intellectual property and careful execution of authenticity verification are thus essential to avoid legal consequences. The integration of real-time data is crucial to ensure the accuracy of authenticity verification. Our real estate evaluations also benefit from these technologies.
The future of authenticity verification will be significantly shaped by technological innovations. The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning offers new possibilities to detect counterfeits more quickly and reliably. AI systems can analyse large data sets and recognise patterns that are invisible to the human eye. They can also learn to adapt to new counterfeiting techniques and continuously improve their detection capabilities. Artificial intelligence will play a key role in combating product piracy.
Blockchain technology also has the potential to revolutionise authenticity verification. Blockchain enables transparent and tamper-proof tracking of products across the entire supply chain. Every step, from manufacturing to sale, can be documented in the blockchain, allowing a product's authenticity to be verified at any time. This strengthens trust in online marketplaces and promotes the trade of second-hand luxury goods. The integration of blockchain technology into authenticity verification will make trade safer and more transparent.
Authenticity verification has not only economic but also societal impacts. It helps combat product piracy and fraud, protecting consumers from harm caused by counterfeit products. Effective authenticity verification can also contribute to strengthening trust in brands and products and boosting the economy. Therefore, the continuous development of authenticity verification is crucial to meet future challenges and ensure a safe and fair trading environment. Our analyses help you find the right platform for your needs.
The authenticity verification is an indispensable tool to protect yourself from the risks of counterfeiting. Whether it's designer handbags, luxury watches, or other high-quality products, verifying authenticity is crucial to avoid financial losses and disappointments. The various methods and technologies available today offer a wide range of possibilities to check the authenticity of products. From digital authenticity checks, the complex processes of online marketplaces, to the multi-layered security features of manufacturers, there is a suitable solution for every need. The authenticity verification is thus your key to safety and protection of your investments.
To summarise the key aspects for you once again, here is an overview:
Digital Authenticity Check: Quick and easy via photo.
eBay Authenticity Verification: Automatic for qualified items with expert review.
Multi-layered Security Features: Visual, alphanumeric, and microscopic elements.
The continuous advancement of authenticity verification through technological innovations such as artificial intelligence and blockchain will further enhance security and transparency in commerce. It is important to stay informed about the latest developments and choose the verification methods that best suit your needs. This way, you can ensure that you always receive authentic products and protect yourself from the risks of counterfeits. Ensuring data quality is of utmost importance. Our property experts are happy to assist you with the evaluation.
In today's world, it is more important than ever to protect against counterfeits. The authenticity check offers you the opportunity to verify the authenticity of products and protect yourself from costly fraud. Whether you're buying luxury goods online, acquiring pre-owned designer handbags, or looking for valuable collectibles, the authenticity check provides the assurance you need. Use the various methods and technologies available today to safeguard your investments and enhance your confidence in your purchases.
With a variety of authenticity verification services, there are numerous ways to verify the authenticity of your products. Enter provides you with comprehensive information and support in choosing the right verification methods, navigating the authentication process, and avoiding potential issues. By opting for an authenticity check, you invest in the security of your purchases. Not only do you reduce the risk of counterfeits, but you also ensure confidence in the authenticity of the products you acquire. The continuous improvement of AI models is crucial in this regard.
Now is the perfect time to explore the possibilities of authenticity checks. Contact us today to start your personalized consultation and quickly and easily verify the authenticity of your products. Register for free and receive an immediate first assessment for the authenticity verification needs of your products. Contact us!
SCANLAB offers multiple layers of security features to protect against product counterfeiting.
eBay provides information about the authenticity verification that offers buyers reassurance when purchasing luxury items or collectibles.
Stoll & Co. is a partner of eBay and conducts professional authenticity checks for watches.
What exactly is an authenticity check and why is it important?
The authenticity check is the process of verifying whether a product is genuine and meets the manufacturer's standards. It is crucial for protecting against counterfeits and fraud, especially with luxury goods, electronics, and collectibles.
How does the digital authenticity check for designer handbags work?
In the digital authenticity check, photos of the handbag are sent to experts who compare them with reference databases and characteristics of authentic products. Upon successful verification, an authenticity certificate is issued.
Which brands are supported by the digital authenticity check?
The digital authenticity check supports a wide range of brands, including Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Celine, Chanel, Chloé, Coach, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Givenchy, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, MCM, Prada, Saint Laurent, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Valentino.
How does the authenticity check work on eBay?
eBay has introduced an authenticity check programme where qualified items are verified for authenticity by independent experts. Items participating in the authenticity check are marked with a blue checkmark.
Which categories are covered by the authenticity check on eBay?
The authenticity check on eBay covers various categories including watches (from EUR 1800), sneakers (from EUR 100), and handbags/luxury accessories (from EUR 500).
What technologies are employed in authenticity checks?
Various technologies are employed, including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, eddy current measurement, gold scales, and blockchain technology.
What are the challenges in authenticity checks?
The challenges include increasingly sophisticated methods used by counterfeiters, the high costs of conducting authenticity checks, and the legal liability for incorrect decisions.
What advantages does blockchain technology offer in authenticity checks?
Blockchain technology provides transparent and tamper-proof traceability of products throughout the supply chain, allowing the authenticity of a product to be verified at any time.
