OEM adopts new technology in printers and components to detect fake ink, toner and cartridges.
HP is to unveil a new range of printers and verification codes that are able to identify counterfeit ink, toner and cartridges in order to tackle Kenya’s counterfeiting problems, reports Kenyan news website The Star.
Authentication software for HP printers will be installed on new devices and be made available for installation onto older models which will “send the user a notification before they start using [the printer]” said Janet Thiong’o, Ink, Web Solutions Product Manager for East, West and Southern Africa. “This will be particularly useful for users who order in bulk from third parties and are not able to verify the supplier.”
Quick Response (QR) codes will appear on original HP cartridges, enabling users to check that the product is authentic before purchasing using a smartphone or by inputting the numeric code next to the QR code into the HP Mobile Authentication website. Valid cartridges should generate a confirmation message to assure the user that it is an authentic HP product.
According to the article, companies including Nokia, Microsoft and Samsung have also been making attempts to prevent counterfeiting in the region, working with Anti Counterfeit Agency and Kenya Revenue Authority to stop the importation and distribution of fake products.
“Counterfeits are an industry problem and it is up to every player in the industry to play their part” added Thiong’o.