In the weeks following the iPhone 15 release, reports emerged that Apple had started placing hidden indicators in the packaging to prove a device’s authenticity. Before long, counterfeiters in China reportedly caught on and began replicating these security features. The chatter came from an insider who goes by Majin Bu.
Ultraviolet light reveals these tamper-evident seals. They are applied to the outer cartons to deter tampering, and the labels carry the word “iPhone” along with a compact DataMatrix barcode. Recently, counterfeiters in China are said to have duplicated this particular safeguard, which could complicate the task of verifying a brand-new unit that might actually be fake or pre-owned but presented as new.
According to Majin Bu, Chinese counterfeiters have already copied these iPhone 15 seals, so shoppers should exercise caution when buying a brand-new iPhone 15 from online marketplaces or unverified sellers and perform all recommended checks to confirm legitimacy.
As a result, relying solely on seal verification may no longer be reliable when purchasing iPhone 15s from less reputable sources. A practical alternative for verification is to check the device on Apple’s official website by entering the serial number. This simple step can reveal the activation date and warranty status, helping buyers verify ownership and ensure that the device aligns with Apple’s records.
Previously, Huawei released a standard smartphone case priced at 26,000 rubles, illustrating how brand security and product presentation can become focal points across different markets and product lines.