HP Distributor Tech Data Alerts Resellers to Fake Cartridges

According to a statement in PCR Online, HP’s distributor, Tech Data UK, has urged resellers to use QR codes to identify counterfeit HP laser cartridges. The distributor confirmed that many re-manufactured, or refilled, and compatible cartridges are packaged improperly and sold as having original HP toner inside. Thus, it encourages resellers to use HP’s QR code to protect themselves and their customers from misidentification.

“By providing genuine HP toner cartridges to customers for their HP LaserJet printers, resellers can protect customers’ investments and extend the lifetime of their devices. But it’s important that both resellers and their customers are alert to the many fake or counterfeit cartridges that are now being openly offered on the market. It’s important to know it is a genuine HP cartridge—and not to discover it is counterfeit toner after it is too late.” stated Mark Porter, Print and Supplies Manager at Tech Data UK.

OEMs have been working on many ways to crack down on fake consumables. Recycling Times reported in September that Brother introduced an innovative holographic security label, enabling customers to identify genuine Brother consumables when purchasing these products.