How to identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning connector accessories

If you use a counterfeit or uncertified Lightning accessory, you could see these issues:

Your iOS device could become damaged
The cable might be easily damaged
The connector end might fall off, get very hot, or might not fit properly into your device
You might not be able to sync or charge your device

Compare packaging and writing on the cable

To identify counterfeit or uncertified cables and accessories, look carefully at the accessory’s packaging and at the accessory itself. Certified third-party accessories have the MFi badge on their packaging:

Some accessories might have a previous version of the MFi badge:

Compare connectors and laser etchings

You can use the Lightning connector, USB connector, and laser etchings to identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning accessories. Compare the images below of certified Apple accessories and counterfeit or uncertified Lightning accessories. These are only a few counterfeit products. There are others.

Lightning to USB cable, Lightning-connector end

Here are examples of the Lightning-connector end of the Lightning to USB cable. The first three are Apple branded, the others are counterfeit or uncertified.

Apple-branded Lightning to USB cable

Single piece Smooth Rounded, smooth, gold- or silver-colored contacts

Width and length of Apple boot is consistent (7.7 mm x 12 mm)

Gray/metallic faceplate insert

Counterfeit or uncertified Lightning to USB cable

More than one piece Rough or inconsistent finish Squared contacts with an uneven surface

Varying width, length, or thickness

White or black faceplate insert

Lightning to USB cable, USB-connector end

Here are examples of the USB-connector end of the Lightning to USB cable. The first four are Apple branded, the next set are counterfeit or uncertified.