How to Spot Original Phones from Fakes in Nigeria

Introduction

In Nigeria’s bustling mobile market—especially in cities like Lagos and Abuja—the difference between a smart buy and a scam often comes down to one question: “Is this phone original?”

With cloned smartphones flooding both online and physical markets, many Nigerians are unknowingly paying premium prices for substandard, counterfeit devices.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll show you how to spot fake phones, verify authenticity, and avoid scams when buying phones—whether from Computer Village Ikeja, Wuse Market Abuja, or online platforms like Comilmart, Jumia, and Amazon.

Table of Contents

1. Why Fake Phones Are a Big Problem in Nigeria
2. Commonly Faked Phone Brands in Nigeria
3. Physical Signs of a Fake Phone
4. Software Checks to Spot Clones
5. IMEI Number Verification
6. Trusted Online Platforms to Buy Original Phones
7. Why You Should Avoid Street Phone Sellers
8. Internal & External Links for Trusted Mobile Shopping
9. Tips for Online Phone Buyers in Lagos & Abuja
10. Conclusion

1. Why Fake Phones Are a Big Problem in Nigeria

• High demand + limited supply = perfect conditions for fake phone dealers
• Cloned phones mimic original looks but lag in performance, security, and lifespan
• Thousands of complaints yearly from duped customers
• Counterfeit market thrives in areas like Computer Village (Lagos), Wuse Market (Abuja), and even unregulated online stores

2. Commonly Faked Phone Brands in Nigeria

The most commonly cloned brands in Nigeria include:

• iPhone (Apple) – Highly cloned due to premium demand
• Samsung Galaxy – Especially models like S21, S22, and A-series
• Tecno and Infinix – Clones dominate local markets
• Xiaomi and Oppo – New targets due to growing popularity

💡 Tip: If the deal is too good to be true, especially for a premium brand like iPhone or Samsung, it’s likely a clone.

3. Physical Signs of a Fake Phone

Here’s how to spot a fake phone just by inspecting its body:

Always unbox in front of a trusted technician or verify in-store before accepting delivery.

4. Software Checks to Spot Clones

Even if it looks real, software tells the truth. Here’s how to check:

• Settings → About Phone: Check if the brand/model and Android/iOS version match advertised specs
• Check Storage: Fake phones inflate RAM/storage numbers
• Google Play Store: Some clones can’t access Play Store
• iOS Activation: For iPhones, go to Apple’s Activation Lock and check status

5. IMEI Number Verification

Your phone’s IMEI number is its digital fingerprint. Verify with:

• Dial *#06# to display IMEI
• Visit IMEI.info or GSMA
• Confirm:
  • Correct brand and model
  • Matching region
  • Warranty status

🔐 Pro Tip: For Apple devices, use CheckCoverage to verify if your iPhone is genuine.

6. Trusted Online Platforms to Buy Original Phones

Nigeria has several reputable platforms. Here’s our curated list for safe online shopping:

✅ Comilmart Nigeria

• Verified sellers only
• Product photos, specs, reviews
• Trusted delivery to Lagos, Abuja, and beyond
• Strong buyer protection

✅ Jumia Nigeria

• Runs official brand stores (e.g., Samsung, Tecno)
• Offers payment on delivery
• Lagos & Abuja express delivery

✅ Amazon Global

• Genuine products from verified sellers
• Ideal for international models
• You may need freight forwarders for delivery

✅ Walmart

• Safe for buying original Samsung and Apple
• Cross-check shipping and customs options for Nigeria

✅ Alibaba

• Great for bulk orders, resellers, or startups
• Be cautious—verify suppliers thoroughly

7. Why You Should Avoid Street Phone Sellers

Buying phones from hawkers or unregistered retailers often results in:

• Fake or refurbished devices
• No receipt or warranty
• Stolen goods (blacklisted IMEI)
• Risk of arrest for handling stolen property
• No return or refund options

Only shop from traceable, registered vendors with physical or verifiable digital presence.

8. Internal & External Links for Trusted Mobile Shopping

Comilmart Internal Links:

• Shop Android Phones in Lagos
• Original iPhones on Comilmart
• How to Report a Fake Seller on Comilmart

External Backlinks for Verification:

• Apple Activation Lock Check
• IMEI Info Lookup
• Amazon Smartphones
• Alibaba Phones
• Walmart Cell Phones

9. Tips for Online Phone Buyers in Lagos & Abuja

• Read seller reviews before checkout
• Use secure payment options like Paystack or Flutterwave
• Always record unboxing process for evidence
• Check return policies before buying
• Don’t fall for “limited time deals” without verification

10. Conclusion

Fake phones don’t just waste your money—they endanger your digital security, data, and experience. Whether you’re buying an iPhone in Wuse Abuja or a Samsung Galaxy in Ikeja Computer Village, always verify before you buy.

Shop confidently on platforms like Comilmart, compare with Amazon, Walmart, and Jumia, and follow the tips shared in this guide to avoid costly mistakes.

Need Help or Reporting a Fake Phone?

Visit the Report Abuse Page on Comilmart to take action against dishonest sellers and protect others.