In an effort to combat the sale of fake luxury items, some popular tourist hotspots are imposing strict penalties on people wearing counterfeit designer goods. In Spain, authorities have been cracking down on street vendors selling fake products, including sunglasses, watches and clothing. 

And while the main targets are the sellers, tourists can also face fines or could even get their purchases confiscated. In Italy, it is illegal to buy, sell or possess counterfeit goods. The law, known as the “Legge Finanziaria,” aims to protect the Italian fashion industry and consumers and tourists caught with fake designer items may be subject to fines.

Danny Toffel, founder and CEO of Watches2U, the UK’s largest independent online retailer of branded watches, says: “Purchasing counterfeit items not only undermines the value of genuine products but also supports criminal industries. It’s crucial for people to be aware of both the legal and ethical implications of buying fake designer goods, especially when travelling abroad. Many tourists may not realise that they are contributing to criminal networks by buying these items.”

He adds: “Aside from the legal risks, counterfeit items are often made from low-quality materials that can pose safety hazards, particularly in the case of luxury watches or jewellery. Genuine brands invest heavily in product safety and durability, while counterfeit goods simply don’t meet those standards. Tourists could be putting their health and safety at risk by buying fake items.”

In order to avoid potential legal issues, Danny advises buying designer items from reputable retailers or directly from brand boutiques. “I would always recommend buying from trusted sources,” he says. “Authenticity isn’t just about the logo; it’s about the experience of owning a high-quality product that has been crafted with care.”

He concludes: “The price you pay for a fake item can go beyond the initial cost. It could be a fine, a loss of the item, and potentially serious legal consequences.”