How to spot a fake certificate of analysis

Most fake COAs fail on the same six points. Check them in this order.

1. Does the ID resolve?

Every genuine certificate has a report ID that returns the same data from the issuing lab's own system. A PDF with no ID, or an ID that does not resolve, is not evidence.

2. Does the batch match?

The batch number on the certificate must match the vial in your hand. A real certificate for a different batch proves nothing about yours.

3. Is the lab named?

"In-house tested" is not a laboratory. A genuine COA names an identifiable issuer you can contact independently.

4. Is the trace attached?

No chromatogram means no evidence — just a typed number. Same for the mass spectrum.

5. Do the dates make sense?

Tested before manufactured, or a turnaround that is physically impossible, are the two common tells.

6. Is it the same document?

Compare the font, the resolution of the logo and the metadata of the PDF. Screenshot-of-a-screenshot is a warning sign.

Put it into practice. Every Verdica Labs certificate ships with the chromatogram and mass spectrum attached, and a report ID you can resolve on the verify page. See the tests →