If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.... especially around Christmas.
There has been a general rise in Texas of counterfeit goods, and the Department of Homeland security has seen a rise this week, as many families either start their shopping or try to finish it up.
Special Agent Eddie Hurtado tells Newsradio 1200 WOAI, if there is demand for a product, there's a knockoff being sold at flea markets or, increasingly, online. And if you think it's no big deal, he says they've found some nasty stuff in counterfeit cosmetics.
"Substances we've found inside these items can lead to diseases, skin rashes and even cause cancer," he explains.
The counterfeit items run the gamut, he says, from sunglasses and headphones to designer clothing and accessories. Special Agent Hurtado says they have linked some of the sellers to the transnational criminal organizations.
"We've been able to link several organizations that are funding their smuggling operations," he says.
For shoppers in a rush, he says there are red flags that what they're seeing might be a fake. Look at the customer reviews. They often point out the counterfeits. Also, he says, look at how long the seller has been operating. If it's only been a few days, there's a good chance that the items are knockoffs.