Dangerous Influx of Fake Phones into Nigeria

A dangerous influx of counterfeit cell phones are flooding Nigeria, causing concern to consumers, the industry and government. 

This steady flow of counterfeit cell phones began in the early part of the 2000’s when mobile handsets became widespread in Nigeria.

Last year alone, some 1 million fake phones valued at N2.7 billion were imported into the country adding to the over 148 million sold annually worldwide worth $6 billion.

These phones have been dubbed ‘China phones’ or ‘chinco,’ a derogatory cliche to describe some of the substandard products coming from China.

The cheap price tag, usually less than $100, is what lures uninformed consumers into purchasing the knockoffs. 

However, what buyers perhaps never put into perspective is the huge cost and pain which subsequently follows these cheap priced phones when the fail to work properly.

Some other substandard fakes may not infringe copyright and appear to be legitimate competition to genuine models, but are often produced without government approval, testing or certification and can quickly break down with potentially dangerous consequences.

 Unlike the hundreds of safety checks genuine mobile phone products must pass before hitting the shelves, counterfeit phones are not tested for compliance with industry safety standards.

A new report into the black market devices has revealed they can contain high levels of lead and other substances which are a danger to the environment and human health.

With counterfeiters evading taxation, Nigeria loses a great deal of revenue, including sales and value added taxes as well as various duties and associated government charges.

Combating the growing counterfeit phone problem requires courage on the part of the government which must look for new technology that can identify substandard devices and permanently block users who don’t change to a genuine products.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the apex regulator of the telecom industry should also step up sensitization and awareness campaigns on the dangers of buying fake phones.

Phone manufacturers, mobile phone operators and the relevant agencies should join hands to curb the menace. Most importantly, mobile phone users should only buy devices from registered manufacturers and trusted retailers.