Spot the fakes, protect your health, and shop with confidence.
Let’s face it — the vape industry is booming. And like with any popular product, that means one thing: counterfeits. From fake Elf Bars to dodgy e-liquids in unlabelled bottles, there’s a growing market of knock-offs, and it’s something we hear about far too often.
Not only can counterfeit vapes taste awful, but they can also be unsafe, unregulated, and completely illegal under UK law.
So how do you avoid them? Here’s what to look for — and how to make sure what you’re puffing is the real deal.
🚫 What’s the Risk with Fakes?
Counterfeit vape products are more than just disappointing — they can be dangerous:
- Poor quality materials (batteries, coils, plastics)
- Unregulated e-liquids with unknown ingredients
- No TPD compliance, no safety testing
- Risk of battery failure, leaking, or worse
Buying legit means you're vaping something that's:
- Tested for safety
- TPD-notified and approved by the MHRA
- Made with proper ingredients (VG, PG, flavourings, and nicotine — not mystery oil)
🧠 How to Spot a Counterfeit Vape
Here are some telltale signs:
1. Too Good to Be True? Probably Is.
If you see a disposable vape advertised as 4000 puffs, 5% nicotine, and £3.99 — that’s your red flag.
→ UK law caps e-liquid capacity at 2ml and nicotine strength at 20mg (2%).
2. Missing or Faked Security Codes
Most genuine brands now include a scratch-and-check code or QR scan on the box.
→ Always check on the brand’s official website.
3. Poor Packaging or Spelling Errors
Look out for:
- Blurry logos
- Misspelt flavour names
- Missing nicotine warnings
- No batch number or manufacturer info
4. Sold from Non-Reputable Sources
Counterfeits are often found on:
- Random third-party online marketplaces
- Pop-up shops
- Unlicensed market stalls
→ Stick to registered vape stores and known UK retailers.
✅ How to Buy Authentic Vape Products
We always recommend following these golden rules:
🔒 1. Buy from a Reputable Shop
Whether you shop online or in-person, choose a vape store that’s known for:
- Stocking genuine brands
- Following TPD regulations
- Providing product advice and support
Shameless plug — that’s exactly what we do at Vapeology. 💚
📦 2. Check the Packaging
- Look for TPD warning labels
- Ensure the bottle or device has ingredient info
- Scan the security code if one is included
🔍 3. Know What to Expect from UK-Compliant Vapes
All legal UK vape products must:
- Have no more than 2ml capacity (for disposables/pods)
- Contain a max of 20mg nicotine
- Be listed on the MHRA’s notified products list
(You can check that here)
🧾 4. Keep Your Receipt
If something feels off — taste, smell, performance — you should always be able to return or report it. Reputable sellers want to help, counterfeit sellers disappear.
🧃 Bonus Tip: Be Cautious with E-Liquid Bottles
Counterfeit bottles are a growing problem — especially with popular brands like Bar Juice 5000, Elfliq, and IVG.
Look for:
- Proper batch numbers and expiry dates
- Childproof caps and sealed bottles
- Clear nicotine strength and ingredients list
Final Thoughts from the Counter
We totally get it — finding a good deal feels great. But when it comes to vaping, cheaper isn’t always safer. Counterfeit products can be harmful, unreliable, and just not worth the risk.
If you’re ever unsure about a product, ask! Pop into the shop, send us a photo, or message us online. We’ll happily check it for you — no judgement.
At Vapeology, we only stock authentic, TPD-compliant products from trusted UK brands. Because your health, your flavour, and your kit all deserve better than a dodgy knock-off.