RESIDENTS have been warned not to fall for fake products being sold during the festive season.

Hampshire County Council has issued the warning to shoppers who may be tempted to buy cheap products from car boot sales, internet auctions, social media sites and other websites.

Each year, Trading Standards officers from the county council seize thousands of fake designer goods including Christmas favourites such as health and beauty products, jewellery, clothing and accessories, electrical items and DVDs and CDs.

But the county council is warning of the dangers of the items with counterfeit cosmetics often containing untested and harmful substances that can burn the skin. Fake electrical items can also be electrically unsafe and could overheat, explode or burn out quickly.

Traders found selling counterfeit goods may face prosecution and the prospect of handing back the proceeds made from selling them.

Councillor Roy Perry, leader of Hampshire County Council and executive member for policy and resources, said: “As many people look to budget over the festive period, there is the temptation to look for those bargain gifts. However, the advice from Trading Standards is to avoid buying fake goods this Christmas.”