Fake or Real? How to Spot Illegal Vapes in the UK
If you’ve ever bought a vape from a dodgy market stall or an unfamiliar website, you might’ve wondered — is this even legit? With a rise in counterfeit and non-compliant vape products in the UK, knowing how to spot illegal vapes is more important than ever.
Let’s break down how to identify fakes, what UK regulations say, and why using only legal, TPD-compliant products is a must for your health.
Why illegal vapes are a growing issue
As vaping gets more popular, counterfeit products are flooding into the market — especially overfilled disposables and knock-off versions of popular brands like ELF BAR, Geek Bar, and Lost Mary.
The risks? Unregulated nicotine levels, harmful chemicals, and batteries that can leak or explode. Not exactly a vibe.
Key signs your vape might be fake or illegal
1. It exceeds UK limits
Under UK law (via the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations – TPD), vapes must not exceed:
- 2ml e-liquid capacity for refillable tanks/disposables
- 20mg/ml nicotine strength
If your disposable vape says “6,000 puffs” or “5% nicotine” — it’s illegal for UK sale.
2. No UK compliance symbols or warnings
Legal vapes must have:
- Clear nicotine warning label: “This product contains nicotine…”
- Manufacturer details and contact information
- A batch ID and use-by date
- Proper child-resistant packaging
No warnings? Weird branding? Bad English on the label? 🚩
3. Missing or broken authenticity code
Most legit vape brands now include an authenticity scratch code or QR code on the box. You can enter the code on the brand’s website to confirm it’s genuine.
💡 Tip: If it peels too easily, doesn’t scan, or leads to a sketchy site — it’s probably a fake.
4. Super low prices
If it looks too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic vapes have set retail pricing. If someone’s selling you a “Lost Mary” for £3, you’re not getting a deal — you’re getting duped.
5. You bought it from an unregulated source
Street markets, social media resellers, and some convenience shops often stock unregulated vapes. Always buy from:
- Licensed vape shops
- Reputable online stores
- Retailers that provide invoices and support
Why it matters: health & safety risks
Fake or illegal vapes may:
- Contain untested or dangerous chemicals
- Deliver unsafe levels of nicotine
- Leak or malfunction due to poor build quality
In extreme cases, unregulated batteries have caused fires or injuries. Stick with TPD-compliant gear for peace of mind and safe clouds.
How to check if your vape is legal in the UK
The UK government maintains a list of TPD-notified vape products — which includes all legal and tested e-cigarettes allowed for sale in the UK.
You can also ask your retailer or contact the brand directly if you're unsure.
What to do if you’ve bought a fake
- Stop using it immediately
- Contact the retailer and request a refund or report them
- Report counterfeit sales to Trading Standards or Citizens Advice
Final thoughts
With so many vapes on the market, it’s easy to get scammed — but now you know how to spot the fakes. Choosing legal, tested products protects your lungs, your wallet, and your overall vaping experience.
Want 100% legit, TPD-compliant vapes?
Vape Lounge UK only stocks verified, legal products — no knockoffs, no shady stuff. Shop now for peace of mind and premium puff quality.
