Underwriters Laboratories Inc.
     

Identifying Counterfeit Certification Marks

The first question any consumer asks when they hear about the potential for products bearing counterfeit certification marks is, "How can I tell?" Fortunately, based on UL's experience, a very small percentage of goods have been discovered bearing counterfeit UL Marks. However, UL suggests some considerations consumers should keep in mind if they suspect a counterfeit product.

  • Be wary of products found at deep discount stores that are packaged in boxes that don't display the brand, product name or a certification mark on the box or the product itself.
  • Look for a reputable certification mark on the box and product, such as the UL Mark, to decrease your odds of buying potentially hazardous products.
  • Do not purchase electrical products from flea markets or other temporary venues that do not allow for product returns.
  • If the price of the product is significantly lower than similar products, it may be because substandard, cheap materials were used in its manufacture. Beware!
  • Contact Underwriters Laboratories (UL) immediately by e-mailing anticounterfeiting@us.ul.com or calling 877 -854-3577 if you suspect a product may have a counterfeit UL Mark.

Genuine UL Marks

UL Marks consist of four elements that can be found on the product in the form of a label, die-stamping, molding, or silk-screening (in certain circumstances, this information may appear only on the packaging). Look for these elements to verify legitimate UL Marks:

  • The name and/or certification mark of Underwriters Laboratories (UL in a circle).
  • The word "LISTED" in capital letters.
  • A control number (four alpha-numeric characters) or issue number (sequence of typically 4 to 6 numbers). The issue number may be preceded by one or two letters and by the phrase "Issue No." but not always.
  • A product identity (i.e. what the product is).
Tips on identifying a genuine UL Mark

Other markings that may appear next to or in the vicinity of the legitimate Listing Mark are:

  • UL File Number (for most products this number is prefixed with an "E")
  • Company Name or logo
  • Model, Catalog or Type designation
  • Electrical ratings

Identifying Counterfeit Marks

The following warning signs and tips may help you spot products that do not have a genuine UL Mark:

  • A product bearing a label that doesn't contain the four elements outlined above.
  • Any product that references UL on the carton or on the product itself, but has no company name, trademark, trade name or other designation authorized by UL.
  • Cheap, low-quality workmanship and/or packaging marks with the letters "UL" side-by-side instead of staggered, the lack of a control or issue number, or the words "Approved" or "Pending" instead of "LISTED" or "CLASSIFIED".
  • Product packaging that contains numerous grammatical and spelling errors.
  • Legitimate products generally include product manuals that provide applicable safety warnings and instructions for use, care and maintenance of the product. The lack of appropriate documentation may be a warning sign.
  • Legitimate manufacturers are proud of their products and want to hear from you. They will usually provide a toll-free phone number or other contact information for reporting problems with the product. Be suspicious if you can't find a company name and contact information.

Holographic UL Marks

In addition to the labels mentioned above, UL is constantly working to stay ahead of counterfeiters. UL is introducing a new holographic UL Mark that will be required in 32 common consumer product areas, including power supply cords, nightlights and ceiling fans. The redesigned label incorporates cutting-edge technology, elevated security features and a unique hologram design, making it easy to identify and validate, yet incredibly difficult to replicate. Distinct features of the new hologram label include:

  • Gold background to help U.S. Customs, law enforcement agencies, distributors, retailers and consumers quickly identify the new label.
  • Repeating pattern of floating UL symbols, a burst pattern around one of the floating UL symbols, detailed micro-printing and wavy lines.
  • Color shifting ink similar to that in the new U.S. paper currency.
  • Additional covert security features to assist with the authentication of a UL holographic label.

UL mandates the use of holographic labels for products more prone to counterfeiting. To learn more about holographic UL Marks visit www.ul.com/ace.