If you’re doing a spot of Christmas shopping, make sure you’re not buying counterfeit goods. That’s the warning from Ealing Council’s trading standards team, who are urging shoppers to have a safe Christmas this year and avoid buying fake or dangerous goods.

The team are calling on consumers to be extra vigilant after coming across several items on sale at across the borough.

Goods labelled under designer brands such as Chanel, Gucci, Dior and Jack Daniels have been spotted and previously seized and with Christmas just around the corner, the team are concerned that rogue traders are cashing in on the festive season by selling potentially harmful and substandard items that have not been subjected to electrical safety tests, or even meet the basic safety standards.

Other popular products such as fake perfume and aftershave could contain ingredients that are unknown and could potentially be unsafe.

Councillor Louise Brett, cabinet member for decent living incomes urged Ealing residents to be wary of rogue sellers touting fake goods.

“Annually, we expect a rise in the number of rogue traders who suddenly turn up in busy shopping areas and exploit the gift giving season.

“With the cost of living crisis, many people in Ealing are facing a difficult Christmas financially. It can be very tempting to buy what looks like a designer or branded item at a significantly reduced price, from a seller on the street or online. These goods may have bargain price tags, but there is no guarantee of their quality.”

When shopping it’s wise to follow these simple tips:

• Check the labels of electrical products and toys – products must have a UKCA or CE mark which means the product complies with the required safety standards – avoid buying fake items
• Remember: you can check the authenticity of many designer items by brands such as Chanel, Montcler and Gucci on their dedicated websites by typing in their product codes usually located either inside the item or on certification documents
• If the price is too good to be true, it probably is – only buy from reputable traders who have solid record of selling genuine products.
• Avoid toys with small parts – they can be a choking hazard for small children. Check that toys are clearly marked with age restrictions.

Counterfeit goods may also be linked to the funding of organised crime such as modern-day slavery, drugs and child labour. Traders selling counterfeit goods undermine genuine trade and business and do not contribute to the UK economy.

Councillor Brett added: “During the Christmas season, I encourage shoppers across Ealing to be vigilant and make sure that they’re only buying from well-known, reputable traders.”

If you think you’ve been a victim of an unfair trading practice, please contact Citizens Advice consumer service via the Advice Guide website – www.adviceguide.org.uk or call 0808 223 1133 for a Citizens Advice consumer service adviser.