Don’t wait for an emergency to realize your brand is under attack.
Pharmaceutical counterfeiting is no longer just a problem in emerging markets or for high-profile lifestyle drugs — it’s a global, cross-category threat. But while counterfeiters are getting smarter, they often leave behind subtle clues that your brand is being targeted. The key is knowing what to look for before the damage is done.
Here are five red flags that may indicate counterfeit versions of your product are circulating in the market:
1. Unusual Spikes in Product Returns
If you’re seeing a sudden increase in returns or complaints — especially from regions where you have limited distribution — take note. Counterfeit products often don’t perform as expected, leading customers or pharmacies to flag issues. Watch for vague complaints like “ineffective treatment” or “strange smell” that don’t align with your product’s known safety profile.
2. Inconsistent Batch Numbers or Packaging Anomalies
Your packaging team follows strict protocols. So when you start spotting slight font differences, missing serial codes, or batch numbers that were never produced — that’s a red flag. Counterfeiters frequently try to mimic batch codes but get small details wrong. These inconsistencies can signal fake products trying to piggyback off your supply chain legitimacy.
3. Distribution Patterns That Don’t Make Sense
Have you noticed products showing up in markets where you don’t have authorized partners? Or in quantities that don’t align with your shipments? Counterfeits often enter through gray markets and unregulated channels. Distributors might not even realize they’re carrying fake stock — but your brand will take the hit.
4. A Surge in Online or Social Media Mentions
Counterfeits are increasingly sold via social media, online marketplaces, or unauthorized websites. Occasionally they also break into the legal supply chain that is not favoring the manufacturers counterfeit defense. If you’re suddenly tagged in strange posts, or your product is being offered on platforms you don’t supply to — it’s time to investigate. Social listening tools can help, but scan-based verification adds a much-needed layer of real-world intelligence.
5. Complaints from Healthcare Providers or Wholesalers
Your frontline allies — pharmacists, physicians, and distribution partners — are often the first to notice when something’s off. Whether it’s customer complaints, performance issues, or concerns about packaging, don’t ignore these early alerts. They may be the first sign that counterfeit versions of your product are being passed off as the real thing.
What You Can Do
Being aware of these red flags is the first step — but detecting counterfeits in real time is the game-changer. TrueMed’s platform uses instant, mobile-first scanning technology to identify fakes on the spot and feed verified data into a growing intelligence network. That means faster detection, faster action, and less brand damage.
Counterfeiters aren’t waiting. Neither should you.