FAQs

What is Verified By Anna?

Verified By Anna (VBA) is an independent, AI-powered luxury authentication and risk-assessment service designed to protect online luxury shoppers from scams, counterfeits and misleading listings. We provide link checks, photo authentication of leather goods, apparel and jewellery and deliver full Safe-Buy Reports to ensure you purchase with confidence.

What makes your service different?

We combine over 30 years of luxury fashion expertise with advanced AI-driven image, pattern and seller-behaviour analysis. Every verification undergoes a multi-point assessment across the item, the seller, the platform, pricing logic, digital footprint and communication patterns — delivering a far more holistic and reliable evaluation than standard “photo-only” authentication services.

We are one of the very few platforms that provide pre-purchase and post-purchase protection, with three tailored Safe-Buy verification tiers designed to suit every level of buyer confidence.

Unlike most authenticators, we are able to authenticate nearly any product category* — including:

• Apparel (ready-to-wear, knitwear, dresses, tailoring, denim)

• Luxury leather goods (bags, wallets, SLGs, belts)

• Jewellery (both fashion jewellery and fine jewellery where data is available)

• Footwear & accessories

• Small lifestyle goods

Our evaluations extend beyond the item itself — we assess stitching, construction, hardware, fabrication, coding, pattern alignment, quality markers, seller risk indicators, platform data, and behavioural red flags that many automated or single-photo authenticators simply cannot detect.

The result: a more accurate, transparent and trustworthy authentication experience designed to protect luxury buyers from scams, counterfeits and costly mistakes.

*Authentication is subject to the availability of comparable data, reference materials, and verifiable information for each specific item or category.

About The Founder:

Our founder Anna Townsend, former General Manager for leading luxury fashion houses across Asia-Pacific and Australasia, and a former editor at Cosmopolitan, Her World, Esquire and Harper’s Bazaar, alongside guest judge on Vietnam's Next Top Model. With over 30 years in luxury fashion, retail leadership, editorial direction and high-end brand authentication, My career to mastering the craftsmanship, construction and heritage that define the world’s most iconic maisons.

Throughout my work with Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Dior, Christian Louboutin and other esteemed houses, one truth became increasingly clear: luxury shoppers are navigating a rapidly evolving online world without protection, expertise or certainty. Counterfeits are more sophisticated, listings are inconsistent, AI-generated imagery is rising, and buyers are left to make high-value decisions alone.

Verified By Anna — Powered by AI was created to change that.

I combine human expertise, decades of hands-on experience, and advanced AI-driven visual and behavioural analysis to safeguard luxury consumers from scams, misleading listings and costly mistakes. Every assessment blends meticulous craftsmanship review with AI powered technology: analysing stitching, construction, codes, hardware, digital provenance, seller behaviour, pricing logic and platform-specific risk indicators.

Our Mission

Verified by Anna exists to empower luxury shoppers to buy with confidence in an increasingly digital world. Our mission is to protect clients from scams, counterfeits, and uncertainty by combining 30+ years of luxury fashion experience with advanced AI-powered analysis. We provide clarity, certainty, and intelligent guidance so every purchase feels as safe as buying in-boutique.

Why was Verified By Anna created?

After decades in luxury fashion, Anna recognised a rising problem: shoppers spending thousands online without guidance, protection or clarity. Verified by Anna was created to empower buyers with expert evaluation, advanced AI tools and honest advice — so luxury shopping becomes enjoyable, safe and stress-free.

Our Values

Six pillars guide us: integrity, expertise, precision, transparency, client protection, and excellence.

• Integrity: Every assessment is honest, independent and uncompromising.
• Expertise: Decades of luxury fashion leadership and deep product knowledge guide every evaluation.
• Precision: AI-assisted image, pattern and seller-behaviour analysis enhance human judgement for unmatched accuracy.
• Transparency: Clear communication, upfront risk scoring, and detailed explanations at every tier.
• Client Protection: Your safety, confidence, and online security are the foundation of everything we do.
• Excellence: A commitment to luxury-grade service, meticulous detail, and premium presentation.

What brands do you authenticate?

We specialize in global luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Hermes, and more, across apparel, leather goods and jewellry.

Authentication

What is Safe-Buy with Verified By Anna?

Safe-Buy is our multi-layered risk-assessment process that evaluates:

• Item authenticity indicators

• Seller credibility

• Platform safety

• Price logic

• Listing behaviour

• Communication patterns

• Digital footprint & risk signals

It protects you from scams, fakes, and suspicious listings before you spend a cent.

How does the 3-Tier check work?

Can I upload photos for authentication?

Yes, you can upload clear photos of your item through our secure portal for expert review.

What photos do you need?

For best accuracy:

• Front

• Back

• Bottom & sides

• Hardware close-ups

• Zippers & pulls

• Care labels & washing tags

• Serial plate / chip sticker

• Stitching macro close-ups

• All logos / embossed elements

• Interior lining

• Packaging (dustbag, box, receipt)

• Seller screenshots

Good lighting is essential.

What platforms do you check?

All major resale and marketplace platforms:

• Facebook Marketplace

• Instagram sellers

• TikTok Shop

• eBay

• Depop

• Vestiaire

• Poshmark

• Carousell

• Gumtree

• Independent boutique websites

• Shopify stores

• Luxury consignment sites

If it’s online, we can check it.

How long does authentication take?

TIER 1 Real-Time Link Check

Our Tier 1 service provides an immediate Safe-Buy Risk Assessment of an online listing before you purchase.
We analyse the seller, platform, listing behaviour, and digital risk signals using a combination of AI-enhanced tools, seller-behaviour analytics, and luxury-market expertise.

This tier focuses on safety, legitimacy, and red flags — ideal for fast reassurance when browsing online marketplaces, social media boutiques, independent sellers, or websites you’ve never purchased from.

What do you check in a Tier 1 link assessment?

We look for multiple risk indicators, including but not limited to:

Seller Red Flags

Newly created or low-history profiles

• Hidden identity, unverifiable location

• Sudden name changes or inconsistent branding

• Repeated re-uploads of the same item

• Generic or stolen profile images

• No selling track record or missing reviews

Listing Red Flags

• Too-good-to-be-true pricing

• Unclear or cropped photos

• Images used in multiple listings or across multiple sellers

• AI-generated or enhanced fake-looking imagery

• Watermarks from other platforms or old resale sites

• Copy-and-paste descriptions

• Incorrect or mismatched brand terminology

Communication Red Flags

• Pressure tactics or urgency created by seller

• Refusal to show additional photos

• Deflection when asked authenticity questions

• Push to use unsafe or irreversible payment methods

• Inconsistent writing style, spelling, time zones

Website Safety Checks (for independent sites)

• Domain age & trust score

• SSL certificate, hosting country, and support legitimacy

• Hidden WHOIS details

• Suspicious checkout flows

• Fake “brand ambassador” claims

• Fake trust badges or phoney partnerships

What do I receive in Tier 1?

You receive a concise Seller & Listing Risk Score, plus a summary of findings highlighting any red flags.
This service is fast, efficient, and designed to help you avoid unsafe purchases.

TIER 2 — Photo Authentication Check

What is included in Tier 2 Photo Authentication?

Tier 2 provides a professional photo-based authentication assessment, combining expert human analysis with AI-assisted pattern-recognition tools.

This tier is ideal when you have sufficient clear images of the product (clear screen shots from the listing may be used or requested from the seller) and you want informed, expert insight before or after making a significant purchase.

What do you check in Tier 2?

We conduct a detailed visual analysis of all elements visible in the provided images, including:

Brand-Specific Authenticity Indicators

• Stitch count, density, direction, and tension

• Construction lines and overall craftsmanship

• Hardware alignment, engraving quality, plating, and shape

• Logo embossing, font thickness, spacing, and depth

• Serial numbers, date codes, or item identifiers (where visible)

• Leather grain, texture, folds, and edge finishing

• Packaging elements (dust bags, authenticity cards, ribbons, boxes)

• Season tags, RTW care labels, and factory codes

• Fabric composition, pattern alignment, buttons, linings, and embellishments

Photo-Based Risk Detection

• Signs of photo manipulation or AI enhancement

• Blurry, low-resolution, or strategically cropped images

• Details inconsistent with known brand manufacturing techniques

• Images sourced from boutiques or resale platforms rather than the seller

• Lighting or angles used to obscure defects or construction details

Is Tier 2 good for disputes and chargebacks?

Yes. Tier 2 is frequently used to support:

• PayPal “Significantly Not as Described” disputes

• Credit card chargebacks

• Marketplace fraud or misrepresentation claims (eBay, Facebook, Depop, Vestiaire, etc.)

• Insurance, recovery, or documentation purposes

The report provides specific, item-level analysis and documentation that can assist in claims involving counterfeit goods, inaccurate listings, misrepresentation, or incorrect branding.

Who is Tier 2 best for?

• Buyers wanting expert reassurance without the cost of a physical inspection

• Shoppers who need immediate clarity to make a purchase decision

• Clients preparing for a dispute or refund request

• Sellers wanting to verify stock before listing

• Anyone seeking a professional, non-guaranteed expert opinion backed by methodical, AI-assisted analysis

Can we assess the quality of a replica?

Yes — we can assess the visual quality of an item, even when it is suspected or known to be a replica.
However, we do not endorse, encourage or support the purchase of counterfeit goods. Our role is to educate, protect, and inform buyers so they can avoid financial loss and make safer decisions.

We may comment on craftsmanship (stitching, materials, fonts, construction) purely for educational and safety purposes.

Do you review for replica indicators?

Absolutely. Our purpose is to protect luxury buyers — so every Tier includes an assessment of counterfeit and replica-grade warning signs.

We do not endorse, rate, or assist with purchasing replicas.
However, we identify and report:

• Counterfeit construction behaviours

• Replica-grade materials (canvas, leather, tweed, hardware plating)

• Inconsistent stitching patterns and stitching tension

• Incorrect grain patterns

• Misaligned quilting or pattern placement

• Serial plate inconsistencies

• Incorrect font width, embossing depth, or stamping

• Incorrect hardware tone, weight, or finish

• Misaligned hardware mounts

• Incorrect lining material or weave irregularities

• Manufacturing behaviours not consistent with the brand’s standards

These insights are included to protect you from fraudulent listings — not to facilitate replica buying.

Our commitment is to provide a clear, honest, expert-backed assessment so you can make informed and confident luxury purchases.

Legal disclaimer: Verified by Anna does not endorse replica purchases. All replica-related insights exist solely to protect clients from fraudulent or counterfeit listings

How accurate are the reports?

Safe-Buy is a hybrid system combining:
✔ AI-powered pattern detection
✔ Visual comparison
✔ Metadata analysis
✔ Seller-behaviour profiling
✔ 30+ years of luxury expertise

Accuracy varies based on image quality and information available.

How will I receive my report or certificate?

All reports and certificates are delivered digitally via email to the address provided at checkout.

• Tier 1: Clients receive a written Listing Risk Review summary

• Tier 2: Clients receive a detailed Photo Authentication Report and, where applicable, an Authentication Certificate

Documents are provided in PDF format and are suitable for personal records, resale decision‑making, or dispute support (subject to third‑party acceptance).

Is this a “guaranteed” authentication?

Tier 2 is an expert opinion-based authentication. It is not a financial guarantee, as with all remote, image-based authentication services, conclusions are limited to what is visible in the provided images and available information.

This approach reflects standard industry practice for photo-based authentication.

Why is Tier 2 not financially guaranteed?

Photo-based authentication has inherent limitations, including:

• Variability in image quality and resolution

• Details that may not be visible or disclosed

• Seller-controlled presentation of the item

• No control over chain of custody

For these reasons, industry-leading authentication services classify photo-based assessments as expert opinion reports, rather than financially-backed guarantees.

Clients seeking the highest level of certainty may wish to combine Tier 2 with Tier 1 (Seller & Listing Verification) and/or Tier 3 (Advanced or Physical Verification) for broader context.

TIER 3 — Full Physical Authentication Safe-Buy Report (Coming Soon)

This premium tier offers full buyer protection — your item is physically inspected using advanced authentication tools, including leading industry - grade scanning technology (pending official partnership). Tier 3 is ideal for high-risk sellers or luxury items where full authentication and financial coverage is required post -purchase.

Unlike photo-only checks, this involves in-person assessment of stitching, embossing, codes, tags, materials and hardware using both human expertise and AI-powered analysis.

If a mistake occurs, eligible clients can claim a full money-back guarantee, subject to verification by two independent authenticators and evidence submission. The original buyer, Safe-Buy report holder, and original photos must be available. Other terms and conditions apply.

Coming Soon: Physical authentication and financial guarantee will be available for select categories, including bags, accessories and select apparel and jewellery. Tier 3 is in the final stages of partnering with a global industry leading 3rd party physical authenticator.

What is included in Tier 3?

Tier 3 is our most advanced item-level authentication service, designed for clients who require the highest level of confidence based on physical inspection and enhanced verification methods.

This tier focuses exclusively on the item itself and is intended for situations where you already have physical possession of the product.

Clients receive:

• Safe-Buy Physical Item Inspection

A hands-on inspection conducted by Verified by Anna – Powered by AI, combining professional expertise with structured authentication protocols.

• Advanced AI & Forensic Authentication

AI-powered scanning and microanalysis performed by a third-party, industry-leading authentication partner, utilising microscopic and forensic-grade technology.

• Independent certified outcome provided

• Result issued as Authentic or Counterfeit in accordance with partner standards

• Manual Expert Review

A parallel authentication assessment conducted by industry-leading human experts, ensuring both technical and experiential evaluation.

• Your Tier 3 report may include analysis of (subject to item category):

  • Stitch density, consistency, and tension

  • Embossing sharpness and logo alignment

  • Date codes, serial plates, QR codes, or microchip data (where applicable)

  • Hardware weight, engraving quality, and surface finish

  • Material composition and quality (e.g. leather grain, canvas texture)

  • Lining materials and interior construction

  • Label format, placement, and attachment method

  • Provenance indicators, SKU logic, and seasonal identifiers

  • Pricing logic and market consistency review

• Pricing logic and market consistency review

• Final Safe-Buy verdict based on combined physical, technical, and expert analysis, a final outcome is issued as one of the following:

  • Authentic

  • Likely Authentic

  • Inconclusive

  • Likely Inauthentic

  • Replica

Who is Tier 3 best suited for?

Tier 3 is ideal for:

• High-value luxury items

• Post-purchase verification

• Resale, insurance, or asset documentation

• Situations where maximum confidence is required

This service is available to verified clients only and is subject to strict conditions, eligibility by brand and category, as well as third-party partner requirements.

This tier is perfect for high-value luxury purchases and you already have physical possession of the product. We are currently finalising integration with a globally recognised authentication technology partner.
Tier 3 will be released in the imminent future and offered under strict professional and compliance conditions.

Depending on the selected Safe-Buy report, turnaround times commence after payment and sufficient evidence is provided. VBA will make every effort to communicate any delays ie. insufficient, blurry imagery or broken url.

Typical timeframes: Tier 1 - Link Check within 2-24 hours Tier 2 - Photo Authentication within 24 hours Tier 3 - Physical Authentication within 24-48 hours

Reports, Delivery & Turnaround Times

When does the assessment process begin?

The assessment process begins once payment is confirmed and all required information has been received.

For Tier 1, this is typically the listing link.
For Tier 2, this requires submission of the required photographic evidence.

Incomplete submissions may delay commencement.

What is the turnaround time?

Tier 1 – Listing Risk Review

• Standard turnaround: within 2-24 hours

Tier 2 – Photo Authentication Report

• Standard turnaround: within 6-24 hours

Turnaround times are calculated from the point at which all required materials are received, not from initial submission if information is incomplete.

Do you offer urgent or expedited reviews?

At this time, expedited or urgent services are not routinely offered. All assessments are completed within standard turnaround timeframes to ensure consistency, quality, and accuracy across all reviews.

In limited circumstances, urgent requests may be considered at our discretion and subject to availability. Requests of this nature must be submitted via email: info@verifiedbyanna.com and are not guaranteed.

Are turnaround times guaranteed?

Turnaround times are target timeframes, not guarantees. While most reports are delivered within the stated periods, delays may occur due to:

• Evidence quality or completeness

• Volume of submissions

• The complexity of the item under review

Any material delay will be communicated.

Will I be notified when my report is ready?

Yes. You will receive an email notification once your report or certificate has been completed and issued.

Please ensure you check your spam or junk folder if you do not see the email within the stated timeframe.

What happens if my submission is missing information?

If required information or images are missing:

• You may be contacted to supply additional material, or

• The assessment may proceed with noted limitations, which could impact the outcome (including an Inconclusive result for Tier 2)

Payments & Processing

Payments and Processing

How do I pay?
Payments can be made securely via:

• Afterpay

• Apple Pay

• Google Pay

• Card

• Stripe

When do I pay?
Payment is required before the Safe-Buy assessment begins.

How do I submit a request?

1. Sign up via the app or input name and email via Intake form

2. Select your tier

3. Submit the link/photos via our Intake/Upload Form

4. Make encrypted payment

5. Receive order confirmation

6. Your report is delivered via email

Turnaround Times

• Real-Time Link Check: within 2-24 hours

• Photo Authentication: within 6-24 hours

• Full Safe-Buy Report: up to 48 hours depending on complexity

Privacy & Security

Is my information secure?

Yes. We never share your submissions or personal details. Photos, links and conversations are kept confidential. Please refer to our Privacy Policy.

Do you store my reports?

Reports are securely archived for 90 days unless otherwise requested.

Other FAQ's

Can I use your report for buyer protection or disputes?
Yes — many clients use our reports to negotiate price, request additional photos, or support platform, PayPal and credit card claims.

Do you offer sourcing or personal shopping?
Yes — premium clients may request sourcing assistance. For sourcing requests please contact info@verifiedbyanna.com. Sourcing is commission structured - usually 10% of the purchase price or a flat fee depending on the brand, scarcity, production year amongst other factors.

Refund Policy

VBA - Verified By Anna Refund & Guarantee Policy
Effective Date: 1 January 2026

1. Overview & Scope

This policy explains when (and how) we issue refunds or guarantee claims. It applies to authentication services (Tier 1–3) provided via this website.

2. Australian Consumer Law (ACL) Compliance

• We comply with the Australian Consumer Law (ACL). If a service we provide (link check, photo authentication, physical authentication) is faulty, misleading, or not delivered as described, you are entitled to remedies under ACL.

• This Policy does not limit consumer rights under ACL.

3.Do you offer refunds?

Refund eligibility depends on the service tier selected and is assessed in line with Australian Consumer Law (ACL).

Nothing in our policy limits your rights under ACL.

Tier 1 — Listing Risk Review

Are refunds available?
No. Tier 1 is an advisory, pre‑purchase risk review only and does not authenticate the physical item.

Once delivered, Tier 1 reports are not refundable, except where required under ACL.

Tier 2 — Photo Authentication

What is covered?
Tier 2 provides an independent expert opinion based solely on the photographic evidence supplied at the time of review.

If a Tier 2 assessment is shown to be incorrect due to material error or oversight, you may request a refund of the Tier 2 authentication fee only.

What is not accepted as refund evidence?

Refund requests will not be accepted based solely on:

• Marketplace or platform authentication outcomes (e.g. Vestiaire, resale platforms)

• Automated or proprietary platform screening systems

• Outcomes based on different images, physical inspection, or additional materials not included in the original Tier 2 submission

Authentication platforms apply non‑transparent and variable criteria, which may differ from expert photo‑based assessment standards and therefore cannot be used to establish error.

What evidence is required for a Tier 2 refund?

To submit a Tier 2 refund request, you must:

• Have received an original Safe‑Buy Tier 2 Photo Authentication Report

• Submit your claim within 7 days of receiving the report

• Provide a written assessment from a qualified third‑party independent authenticator that:

  • Reached a contrary conclusion to VBA’s assessment

  • Relied on the exact same photographic evidence supplied in your Tier 2 submission

  • Clearly explains why the VBA assessment is incorrect based on observable execution, construction, or manufacturing indicators

Assessments based on physical inspection, additional images, or undisclosed reference criteria are not comparable and will not be accepted.

Scope of any approved refund

• Any approved Tier 2 refund is strictly limited to the authentication fee paid

• The purchase price of the item is never covered

• Tier 2 does not provide a financial or purchase guarantee

Why this standard applies

Tier 2 assessments are photo‑based expert opinions rendered under defined evidentiary constraints. Refunds are considered only where those same constraints demonstrably lead to an incorrect conclusion when evaluated by an independent expert using identical materials.

Tier 3 — Physical Authentication

Tier 3 is not yet launched.

Once available, it will offer a financial guarantee for select categories, subject to strict 3rd party terms and conditions, including physical inspection, surrender requirements if found counterfeit, and defined coverage periods. Full terms will be published prior to launch.

How do I submit a refund or guarantee claim?

Email info@verifiedbyanna.com with the subject line:
“Refund / Guarantee Claim”

Please include:

• A copy of your original Safe‑Buy Report

• Proof of purchase (receipt or payment confirmation)

• Timestamped photos or video of the item after delivery

• A brief explanation of your concern

• For Tier 2: independent authentication or marketplace evidence

Response times:

• We respond within 5 business days

• Approved refunds are issued within 10 business days to the original payment method

• Requests for additional information may extend timelines

When are refunds or guarantees not available?

Refunds or guarantees do not apply if:

• The item was purchased before receiving the Safe‑Buy Report (except Tier 3 once launched)

• The item has been altered, damaged, swapped, resold, or modified

• Seller communications admitted non‑authenticity prior to purchase

• Claims lack sufficient supporting evidence

• Fraudulent or misleading claims are suspected

For Tier 2, any approved refund is strictly limited to the authentication fee paid.

Do you offer refunds for change of mind?

No. Due to the nature of authentication services and digital reports, we do not offer refunds for change of mind or buyer’s remorse.

Refunds are available only in the circumstances outlined above or where required by law.

Can this policy change?

Yes. We may update this policy to reflect legal, operational, or business changes. The latest version will always be published on our website with an updated effective date.

Continued use of our services indicates acceptance of the current policy.

END OF POLICY