Seamus As the picture is of an Xbox 360 (a genuine one, I assume), I would hope that Microsoft have ensured it is a genuine CE mark. However, the characters do look too close together. Are we sure that this Chinese Export story is genuine? LB

Seamus. We have received the same warnings out here, I can't vouch as to whether the story is authentic or not but it would make sense that the genuine "CE" mark follows a set pattern and thier is no doubt that variations are out there. All of the electrical equipment we buy in to support the business comes from approved sources who are strictly vetted, other items brought in for comfort i.e radios, kettles, coffe machines, electrical extension leads etc are scrutinised as part of the PAT testing registration procedure and one of the things we look at (Now) is the "CE" marking to ensure that it conforms to the dimensions of the "CE" symbol as seen against the grid in one of your pictures. If in doubt, reject the item your looking at, we have replaced extension leads used to connect IT equipment due to doubts over the authenticity of conformity markings.

My ten penceworth is that the letters are incorrectly spaced according to the official images. The question is one of whether it is a reputable supplier. This problem of eastern copies is however rife and many items have penetrated the legitimate markets. Bob

There was a good article in Octobers HSW magazine page 26 on this subject if you have access to it.

Most of the items on my desk have the correct marking except for my computer which is from a reputable supplier. I agree that this more likely reflects suppliers using the mark incorrectly rather than fake goods flooding the market...it does make it hard to judge though.