Over 300 counterfeit products in Singapore taken down by JBL’s parent company

Harman calls on consumers to purchase authentic products from authorized retailers and official JBL stores.

Image of the seized counterfeit JBL products
Image of the seized counterfeit JBL products Photo: Harman

Harman International, JBL’s parent company, has issued a takedown on counterfeit JBL products in Singapore. A total of 300 products were surrendered, consisting of the JBL Flip 6, JBL Clip 4, and JBL Go 3 speakers.

Harman, through an in-house investigation, was able to trace the counterfeit products to a private seller responsible for its distribution. These products were found to be listed for sale on a “Singapore based e-commerce platform”. It’s not explicitly stated which e-commerce platform, but your guess is as good as mine. Since then, the products have been surrendered to Harman, with appropriate enforcement actions having been initiated.

Harman’s commitment to taking down counterfeits

“At Harman our commitment to safeguarding consumers and the integrity of our products is a responsibility we take very seriously,” said Grace Koh, General Manager and Vice President, Consumer Audio, Harman Asia Pacific.

Harman has stated that their products go through rigorous testing to “meet strict quality standards”, and authentic JBL products are backed by years of research, to ensure they can deliver an exceptional audio experience.

“When you choose genuine products, you are investing in uncompromising quality and a reliable audio experience,” Grace Koh added.

In contrast, counterfeit products often use inferior materials and may bypass safety checks, placing consumers at risk. Additionally, counterfeits may also deteriorate quicker and lack the unique functions of authentic JBL products, which may result in a substandard listening experience.

 “Counterfeit products do more than compromise quality – they erode customer trust and may even pose safety risks. We strongly urge consumers to purchase only from authorized retailers and official stores, so they can experience the authentic quality, reliability, and innovation that JBL stands for,” Grace Koh added.

And here’s where it gets interesting: Harman has openly come out and says that works closely with e-commerce platforms, enforcement authorities, and industry partners to monitor both online and offline channels in order to take action against counterfeit and infringing products. Pirates and counterfeiters, you have been warned.

How to report suspected counterfeit products

In any case, if you chance upon or suspect that a JBL product is a counterfeit, Harman encourages you to report them to enforcement@harman.com.

Under the Singapore Trademarks Act of 1998, the act of possession, importation or sale of falsely applied trademarks is a criminal offence. If caught, offenders can be liable to a maximum fine of S$100,000, or imprisonment for up to five years, or both.  

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