Samsung Electronics SA is strengthening its pledge to fight counterfeit goods through strategic collaborations with local authorities.
In an interview with ITWeb, Richard Chetty, service director at Samsung Electronics SA, said the company is working closely with the South African Police Service and customs to clamp down on the distribution of counterfeit goods.
He noted this partnership will see raids in various places where it is suspected counterfeit products are being sold.
From a Samsung perspective, said Chetty, cellular phones are the most pirated products. "Counterfeiting is not only common in South Africa; it is at a very high rate across all industries in Africa. People counterfeit money, music, software, vehicle parts, electronic devices and the list goes on. This is why it is important for each company or brand to do their part in combatting this problem.
"It is our responsibility to ensure we empower buyers to make safe and smart purchasing decisions. Besides being detrimental to the economy, counterfeit products and spares hurt consumers' pockets in the long run, due to their inferior quality."
According to Chetty, the easy accessibility of counterfeits means customers pay what they think is far less than the cost of an approved product or part. "Unfortunately, these items come with a hidden price tag which few consumers are aware of until it is too late."
He explained uncertified dealers lure customers by producing them with what at face-value looks like the real product for a much less amount of money. Unfortunately, he noted, in the long run, these products are not built to perform like authentic Samsung products.
"Consumers need to know that buying authentic Samsung products and approved parts from authorised channels, such as the Samsung Brand Stores, leading retailers and South African network operators ensures peace of mind and a 24-month warranty policy. In addition, users get access to Samsung's full range of up-to-date and comprehensive technical and product support."
Chetty said counterfeit products are not covered by Samsung's product warranty and, therefore, cannot be repaired or replaced. "Also, software upgrades might not function optimally and the devices won't work as efficiently."
Dealers not certified by Samsung cannot deliver any warranty, and as such, consumers have to be careful when an online Web site offers a 'deal' that sounds too good to be true, he noted. The product may have quality and technical issues and the warranty policy might be void.
"Genuine products and parts purchased through official channels carry benefits which outweigh the initial small cost saving of counterfeits. Consumers need to realise the best way to save money, is to go the legal and approved retailer route."
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