The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) and The Royal British Legion (RBL) are urging extra vigilance in the run up to Remembrance Day on 11 November.

The warning applies to poppy merchandise – scarves, jewellery, poppy pins and larger poppy brooches – but does not apply to the traditional paper poppies.

Merchandise can be bought through official channels – The Royal British Legion or The Royal British Legion official eBay or Amazon pages.

Intellectual Property Minister, Sam Gyimah, said: “It is truly shocking that anyone would target and exploit one of the UK’s most cherished charities and take advantage of public support for our Armed Forces community.

“Together we can ensure donations go to the people they are intended for, by only supporting approved merchandise. Be vigilant when you are buying your poppies this year, and look out for the Royal British Legion logo to ensure the merchandise is approved and genuine.”

Fake poppy merchandise – what to look for

• Be a ‘responsible buyer’ – buy from official channels and The Royal British Legion’s corporate partners
• Avoid cheaper priced products. If the price is too good to be true, it usually is
• If in doubt, buy through The Royal British Legion or The Royal British Legion official eBay or Amazon pages – you will be sure of the authenticity.