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How we battle counterfeits

Counterfeit electronic components are a huge issue for the electronics industry, putting quality, brand reputation, and sales revenue in jeopardy. This is without even thinking about the major risks that can happen to the health and safety of others.

We want to help others in the industry to avoid counterfeits and advise on the best ways to buy electronic components.

Read below how you can avoid purchasing counterfeits or click here to read our full PDF

Step One

Procurement Supplier Selection
Procurement policies and the selection of suppliers create an opportunity to significantly reduce the risk of counterfeit parts from entering the supply chain. Different sources of supply have different levels of risk, here are some considerations..

Manufacturer, Franchised Distributor OR Agent Independent Distributors Small Unlicensed Distributors 

Step Three

Procurement Supplier Selection
Procurement policies and the selection of suppliers create an opportunity to significantly reduce the risk of counterfeit parts from entering the supply chain. Different sources of supply have different levels of risk, here are some considerations.. Manufacturer, Franchised Distributor OR Agent Independent Distributors Small Unlicensed Distributors 

Step Five

Testing For Counterfeits
When choosing your electronic components supplier it is essential they have the correct quality procedures in place. Not only do they provide quality assurance when purchasing, but they can also help mitigate the risk of counterfeit electronic components entering supply chains. It is recommended that electronic component suppliers should have the necessary processes in place to be able to mitigate the risk of receiving, storing and shipping potential counterfeit devices. Some of their quality processes may include the following quality certifications... ISO 9001:2008 AS5553 IDEA-STD-1010B

Step Seven

Planning, Systems & Procedures
Companies dealing with electronic components should develop a counterfeit parts control plan to outline what systems and processes they will use in mitigating the risk, disposition and reporting of counterfeit parts. By planning and controlling it will help to mitigate counterfeit parts going into your manufacturing process or sold onto other parties. Within the plan it is recommended that companies include the following items: Assess availability of authentic parts. Conduct an obsolescence program to manage life cycle of their products. Assess potential sources of supply to determine risks. Maintain a list of approved suppliers. Develop a component quality plan that assures detection of counterfeit parts, including minimum inspection and test requirements. A documented process to initiate an investigation once counterfeit parts have been detected. A documented process to report suspected counterfeit product to customers and government organisations.

Step Two

Receiving, Inspecting & Examining Goods
When parts are first received, the first 'screen' or procedure that should be conducted is purely visual which can save you considerable problems further down the production line! Visual inspections are recommended for any organisation dealing with electronic components and are the front line of counterfeit screening. Inspection starts with the delivery paperwork then the outer packaging/labelling and continues down to the component level. You should carefully look at these three: Paperwork considerations, Packaging considerations, Component Considerations 

Step Four

Traceability Requirements
Suppliers must maintain accurate records regarding the purchase of material that can be easily accessed when required by customers. It is vital your supplier is open and honest, divulging their origin. By providing traceability according to quality standard. Procedures (such as ISO 9001:2008 certification) customers can follow the origin of the electronic component, ensuring the highest level of accountability and control.

Step Six

Training & Certifications
As there seems to be no sign of improvement regarding the counterfeiting issue. Within the electronic component industry there is a need for training courses and certifications. Organisations should be pro-actively developing and conducting regular training for employees in the areas of procurement, detection, reporting and disposition of counterfeit parts. Companies can take advantage of the resources from industry organisations to learn about counterfeit parts and how to prevent them from entering the supply chain, these organisations include: ● AIA (Aerospace Industries Association) ● The CACP (Coalition Against Counterfeiting & Piracy) ● JEDEC (Joint Electron Devices Engineering Council) ● IDEA (Independent Distributors of Electronics Association) ● UKEA (UK Electronics Alliance)

Step Eight

Reporting Counterfeit Components
If the unfortunate event occurs and a counterfeit electronic component is received by your company, it is vital you collate as much evidence as possible. Your immediate reaction may be that you decide to send the parts back to the supplier demanding your money back. However, when sending the parts back, you are inviting them to send those same parts to another unfortunate purchaser.

Cyclops Electronics Ltd, Reg. No. SC128862, VAT No. GB561633447, D&B No. 764855367

Registered Office: Titanium 1, King’s Inch Place, Renfrew, PA4 8WF

(Registered in the United Kingdom)

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