Fake Parmigiano Reggiano
AvoidReal Parmigiano has pin-dot text on the rind reading "PARMIGIANO-REGGIANO" with DOP certification. Anything labelled "Parmesan" without this is not the real thing. In Italy, buy from a tagliatore who cuts from the wheel.
Fake Extra Virgin Olive Oil
AvoidReal EVOO has a harvest date (raccolta), named producer, and DOP/IGP certification. If it costs €3 for a litre, it's not genuine extra virgin. Buy from farmshops where you can taste before buying.
Fake Balsamic Vinegar
AvoidReal Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale is aged 12-25 years and costs €40+ per 100ml. The €3 supermarket "balsamic" is wine vinegar with caramel colouring. Both are legal — only one is the real thing.
Fake Italian leather
AvoidReal leather smells like leather and has slight imperfections. Fake leather (PU) smells chemical and looks too perfect. "Vera pelle" (real leather) stamps can be faked too — buy from workshops where you see production.
Fake "Made in Italy" fashion
AvoidSome products are legally "Made in Italy" despite using imported materials and only final assembly in Italy. True Italian craftsmanship means Italian materials, Italian skill, Italian tradition. Ask about the supply chain.
Bottom line
When in doubt: buy from the source (producer, workshop, farm), check for DOP/IGP seals on food, and trust your nose for leather. If the price seems too good, the product probably is too.