Attention fellow shoppers: One in five of us is possibly being duped, according to The Counterfeit Report, a consumer-protection website

The FBI and the National Intellectual Property Rights Center are alerting consumers to an abundance of dangerous counterfeit cosmetics and fragrances offered on the Internet that look similar to real product — and that's where the similarities end, The Counterfeit Report contends.

While there may be little difference visually in the product and packaging, there is no guarantee of testing or quality ingredients in counterfeit products, said Craig Crosby, the website's publisher, in a recent media release.

In addition to not providing authentic fragrances or results, counterfeit products have been found to contain dangerous ingredients like arsenic, beryllium, DEHP (a plasticizer with health risks) and cadmium (all known carcinogens), urine and antifreeze, along with high levels of aluminum and dangerous levels of bacteria.

These chemicals can cause conditions like acne, psoriasis, rashes and eye infections.

Counterfeit versions of popular high-end cosmetics and fragrances are big money and little risk for counterfeiters and dishonest re-sellers on popular online market sites, such as eBay, Amazon and Craig's List, The Counterfeit Report stated. Dishonest sellers use the manufacturer's advertising photos in the listing to deceive unsuspecting buyers. Even side-by-side comparisons of the real products and fake versions show how difficult it is to visually tell a difference.

The Counterfeit Report recommends consumers buy directly from the manufacturer or its authorized retailers and avoid websites, flea markets and street vendors. Also, pay with a credit card and visit an authorized retailer to compare your item to a known authentic item, when in doubt.

If you are stuck with a counterfeit, suspect someone is selling counterfeit items, or someone you know purchased counterfeit cosmetics or fragrances, submit a tip to The Counterfeit Report's website, which will forward it to the manufacturer, National Intellectual Property Rights Center and, if appropriate, websites such as eBay and Amazon.