Counterfeit AUTOCOM products
The allure of counterfeiting is obvious especially for products that are unique and popular. Counterfeiting is the ultimate technology for people who want to get something for nothing.
It was perhaps not news that there are copies of our products out in the markets. We know that we develop and sell products and services that truly function for our customers. Come to think of it, who wants to copy the things that do not work?
In a way, it's flattering and it is a confirmation of our hard work which makes our products well sought after. But unfortunately, it affects not just us. Those who buy these counterfeit products may not be having the same functionality or software that is updated. And above all, they do not have access to all our knowledge and experience we have accumulated over the years. Ultimately, this affects also the vehicle drivers who risk driving around in unsafe vehicles.
At first glance, these copies may look like original products, however, at a closer look; they differ considerably, which creates problems for those who buy them. Copies exist for both our software (AUTOCOM CARS and AUTOCOM TRUCKS) and our hardware/VCI (CDP).
In the beginning only a few copies were discovered in early 2011, but circulation has escalated over the year. As of today, copies are available on numerous websites, which creates problems for us, our distributors and, ultimately, our customers, who are at risk of buying faulty or illegal products.
SPOT THE DIFFERENCES
THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO IDENTIFY A COPY.
The overlay (CDP adhesive sticker) may be different. Originals have a raised sticker marked Original Data, while copies have a printed sticker.
On copies there may also be a profile of a car and also ISS and ISI logos are present, which are not on the originals.
The originals have rubber ends, which are not on the copies. If you have access to both an original and a copy, you can also see that the connection for the 16-pin plug and the Bluetooth antenna is different.
LEGAL ACTION
All use of such counterfeit products constitutes a crime against copyright infringement laws and is punishable under Swedish and International laws.
Do you know someone who uses or sells illegal copies of Autocom products; we would love to hear from you. Send us as much information as possible to genuine@autocom.se If you have by accident, bought an AUTOCOM product that proved to be fake, you can contact AUTOCOM or any of our distributors for more information.
ORIGINAL IS ALWAYS THE BEST
As explained above, it can be difficult to distinguish between originals and copies. If you are uncertain whether a product you are buying is an AUTOCOM original or a copy, do not hesitate to contact one of our distributors, who will confirm easily whether it is an original, high quality product.
Remember that buying AUTOCOM original products gives you a lifetime guarantee, provided you have a valid license, as well as access to all of AUTOCOM's collective expertise and spare parts.
In other words, it pays to buy an original.
EXAMPLES OF PIRATED UNITS
