SAFETY WARNING
Counterfeit electrical books are dangerous. They contain critical errors that can lead to non-compliant installations, electrical fires and fatal electric shocks. Only use genuine IET publications verified through approved suppliers.
The IET is aware of several counterfeit versions of its books in circulation.
What are counterfeit IET books?
Counterfeiters have created fake versions of critical IET electrical publications, including:
- BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 (18th Edition Wiring Regulations)
- Electrical Installation Design Guide
- On-Site Guide
- Guidance Note 3: Inspection & Testing
- Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment.
Each counterfeit contains many dangerous errors in technical specifications, safety requirements, and regulatory guidance.
Why counterfeit books are dangerous
Using corrupted electrical guidance puts lives at risk. BS 7671 exists specifically to prevent electrical fires and fatal electric shocks. When you follow incorrect information from a counterfeit book, you may:
- Install non-compliant wiring systems
- Fail electrical safety inspections
- Create fire hazards in homes and businesses
- Risk prosecution for unsafe electrical work
- Invalidate your professional insurance
The errors in fake books can kill.
How to verify a genuine copy
All genuine current editions of BS 7671, the On-Site Guide, and Guidance Note 3 include a security hologram containing:
- IET logo in two sizes
- The word 'GENUINE'
- Additional authentication features.
Warning: Sophisticated counterfeiters can replicate holograms. The only guaranteed way to buy genuine IET books is through verified suppliers listed below.
Where to buy genuine IET books
Purchase directly from these verified sources only:
Do not purchase from:
- Amazon Marketplace third-party sellers
- eBay or other auction sites
- Unverified online retailers
- Social media marketplaces.
Why this matters to the industry
The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) is a registered charity. Every genuine book purchase supports:
- Development of updated electrical safety guidance
- Publication of Wiring Matters magazine
- Free technical resources for the electrical industry
- Continued research into electrical safety.
Counterfeit sales fund criminal organisations and prevent the IET from fulfilling its charitable mission to keep people safe.
What to do if you've bought a fake
If you suspect you've purchased a counterfeit IET book:
1. Stop using it immediately – the information may be incorrect and lead to dangerous practices
2. Contact the IET at books@theiet.org with the following information:
- Book title and edition.
- Purchase date and price.
- Supplier name and website.
- Photos of the book and hologram.
3. Report the supplier to:
- Action Fraud: call 0300 123 2040 or reportfraud.police.uk.
- Contact Trading Standards
- The online marketplace you purchased from (if applicable).
Please note: The IET cannot refund purchases from unauthorised suppliers or mediate disputes. However, we actively pursue legal action against counterfeiters to protect the industry.
Your report helps us shut down counterfeit operations.
Expert guidance videos
The Counterfeit Issue (1 of 2)
Former IET Chief Electrical Engineer, Geoff Cronshaw, talks about the consequences of using counterfeit IET Wiring Regulations books.
The Counterfeit Issue (2 of 2)
The IET’s Technical Regulations Manager, Mark Coles, explains how to avoid purchasing counterfeit IET Wiring Regulations books.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if my BS 7671 is counterfeit?
Check for the security hologram and verify your purchase was from an approved supplier. If you bought from an unauthorised seller, contact us with photos for verification.
Are second-hand IET books safe to buy?
Buying a new copy from a reputable source is the only way of guaranteeing that your copy is genuine. Never buy from unverified marketplace sellers.
What errors are typically found in fake books?
Errors vary but can include incorrect data in tables used for cable sizing calculations, corrupted text and missing safety requirements.
Will my insurance cover work done using a counterfeit book?
No. Using counterfeit or fake publications resulting in dangerous practices will invalidate your professional indemnity insurance.
Can I report suspicious sellers anonymously?
Yes. Contact the IET or Action Fraud with as much detail as possible, even without providing personal information.
Key takeaways
✅ Only buy from verified IET suppliers
✅ Check for security holograms (but don't rely on them alone)
✅ Counterfeit books contain dangerous errors
✅ Report suspected fakes immediately
✅ Stop using any book you suspect is counterfeit
Protect your work, your reputation, and lives. Always verify before you buy.