How to Spot a Fake P2 or N95 Respirator Mask: A Buyer’s Guide

September 26 2025, by Tatianna Gerard, 13 min reading time

When it comes to protecting yourself from dust, bushfire smoke, or airborne pathogens, a quality mask isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. But here’s the problem: not every mask on the market is what it claims to be. In recent years, fake P2 and N95 respirator masks have become more common, flooding online marketplaces and even slipping into retail shelves.

At first glance, many counterfeits look convincing. They might have the right shape or even mimic the branding of well-known manufacturers. The trouble is, without proper certification and build quality, these masks won’t filter harmful particles effectively. That means you could be breathing in exactly what you’re trying to block out.

And it’s not just P2 and N95 masks. The same risks apply to other common respirators such as KN95 masks (manufactured to Chinese standards) and FFP2 masks (the European equivalent of a P2/N95). Each has its own regional certification, but all of them can be counterfeited.

In this guide, we’ll focus mainly on P2 masks (certified under AS/NZS 1716 in Australia/New Zealand) and N95 masks (certified by NIOSH in the US), since these are the most familiar and widely used in Australia. But we’ll also highlight tips that apply to KN95 and FFP2 masks, so no matter which type you prefer, you’ll know how to spot a fake and buy with confidence.

Masks vs. respirators: What’s the difference?

Before we dive deeper, let’s clear up a common source of confusion: the terms “mask” and “respirator.”

Masks (like surgical or cloth masks) are mainly designed to protect the people around you by containing droplets when you talk, cough, or sneeze. They’re loose-fitting and don’t provide a reliable seal against fine airborne particles.
Respirators (like P2, N95, KN95, or FFP2) are designed to protect the wearer by filtering at least 94–95% of fine airborne particles when properly fitted. They’re tested and certified against strict safety standards to ensure they can handle dust, smoke, and pathogens.

So why do people still call respirators “masks”? Mostly because they look like masks and are worn on the face in the same way. The important thing to remember is that while all respirators are masks, not all masks are respirators.

In this guide, we’ll mostly use the terms P2 or N95 masks / respirators or respirator masks—because that’s what people search for and are most familiar with—but we’re specifically talking about respirators that meet certification standards, not loose-fitting face coverings.

Why fake respirator masks are a serious problem

At first, a fake mask might seem harmless—after all, if it looks like a P2 or N95 mask, it must work the same way, right? Unfortunately, that’s not the case. A counterfeit or poorly made mask may mimic the appearance of a genuine one, but it often fails where it matters most: filtration and fit.

The risks of fake respirator masks

Poor filtration: Genuine P2 and N95 masks (and even KN95 or FFP2 respirator masks) are designed to block at least 94–95% of fine airborne particles. Fakes rarely meet this standard, leaving you exposed to dust, bushfire smoke, or airborne pathogens.
Bad fit: Even if the filter material works, a mask without proper design or sealing can leak air around the edges—meaning unfiltered air goes straight into your lungs.
False security: Wearing a fake mask can give you confidence that you’re protected when, in reality, you’re not. This is especially dangerous for workers in construction, healthcare, or anyone exposed to hazardous particles.

Why it matters in Australia

In Australia, P2 masks must meet the AS/NZS 1716 standard, which sets strict requirements for performance and safety. According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) guidance on standards for face masks and respirators, P2 respirators are specifically designed to filter out fine particles such as dust, smoke, and infectious agents when fitted correctly.

Genuine N95 masks, on the other hand, are certified under NIOSH standards in the United States. If a mask doesn’t meet these standards, it can’t be relied upon in hazardous environments.

Key features of a genuine respirator mask

Spotting a real mask starts with knowing what should be there. Certified respirators are carefully regulated and must meet strict standards to be sold under names like P2, N95, KN95, or FFP2. Here are the key things to check when making sure your mask is authentic:

✅ Certification marks

P2 respirator masks (Australia/NZ): Should state compliance with AS/NZS 1716 (the local standard for respiratory protective equipment).
N95 respirator masks (USA): Must be NIOSH-approved, with the label “NIOSH” clearly printed on the mask. A genuine N95 also includes a TC approval number (e.g., TC-84A-XXXX).
KN95 respirator masks (China): Should state compliance with the GB2626-2019 standard. If that marking is missing, it’s not genuine.
FFP2 respirator masks (Europe): Must comply with the EN 149:2001+A1:2009 standard and display the CE mark with a 4-digit notified body number.

✅ Manufacturer details

The mask should display the manufacturer’s name, model number, and batch/lot number.
Generic masks with no brand, or vague claims like “N95-style,” are big red flags.

✅ Proper labelling

The mask itself (not just the packaging) should clearly show “P2” or “N95.”
If those markings are missing, the mask isn’t compliant.

✅ Quality build and fit features

Straps: Genuine respirators use headbands (two straps that go around your head) rather than thin ear loops, because headbands provide a tighter seal.
Nose piece: Should include a sturdy, adjustable metal nose bridge that bends to fit your face securely.
Material: The mask should feel firm and structured—either moulded or well-folded—rather than flimsy or thin.

✅ Packaging

Authentic masks come in clean, well-printed packaging with correct spelling, clear instructions, and often safety information. Counterfeit masks often cut corners here.

Tip: When in doubt, compare a mask you’re unsure about with one from a trusted brand or known distributor. Small details—like strap type, labelling, or build quality—often give away a fake.

Signs a respirator mask might be fake

Counterfeit masks often give themselves away with small but telling details. Here are the most common red flags to watch for when buying P2 or N95 respirators (and these apply the same to the other respirator standards):

🚩 Missing or incorrect certification

No mention of AS/NZS 1716 (for P2) or NIOSH (for N95).
Labels that say vague terms like “N95-style”, “KN95 equivalent”, or “P2 grade” without certification.

🚩 Lack of manufacturer information

No brand, model number, or batch/lot code printed on the mask itself.
Packaging that avoids naming the manufacturer or only uses generic wording.

🚩 Suspicious design features

Flimsy build quality, uneven seams, or masks that collapse too easily when you breathe in.
Missing or poorly constructed metal nose bridge.

🚩 Packaging problems

Poorly printed packaging, spelling mistakes, or missing safety instructions.
Bulk packs in unbranded plastic bags rather than proper boxes.

🚩 Price too good to be true

Masks sold far cheaper than reputable brands (especially in bulk).
Unusually low prices on unknown online stores or marketplaces.

🚩 Sold through unofficial channels

Random online resellers, unfamiliar websites, or sellers with little to no reviews.
No clear return or refund policy.

How to check certification

A genuine P2 or N95 mask isn’t just about looks—it’s about meeting strict safety standards. Thankfully, checking certification is straightforward once you know what to look for.

For P2 Masks (Australia/New Zealand)

Look for AS/NZS 1716 clearly printed on the mask or packaging.
This is the Australian/New Zealand Standard that ensures the mask has been tested for filtration efficiency, fit, and construction.
If the packaging only says “P2” but doesn’t reference AS/NZS 1716, be cautious—it may not actually meet the standard.

For N95 Masks (United States)

Genuine N95 masks are certified by NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health).
Look for the word “NIOSH” printed directly on the mask (not just the box).
The mask should also display a TC approval number in the format TC-84A-XXXX.
To be sure, you can cross-check that number on the official NIOSH database of approved respirators.

For KN95 Masks (China)

Genuine KN95 masks should state compliance with the GB2626-2019 standard.
This should be clearly marked on the mask itself, along with the manufacturer’s name and model.

For FFP2 Masks (Europe)

Authentic FFP2 masks must comply with the EN 149:2001+A1:2009 standard.
They must display the CE mark plus a 4-digit notified body number (e.g., CE 0121).
If the CE mark looks suspicious (too small, poorly printed, or missing digits), it’s likely fake.

What to avoid

Masks that only reference “N95” or “P2” without certification details.
Products labelled with phrases like “N95 equivalent” or “P2 style”—these are marketing terms, not proof of compliance.
Packaging that hides or omits standards information.

Where you buy matters

Even the best buyer’s guide won’t help if you’re purchasing from unreliable sources. Counterfeit respirators are most often found through unofficial resellers, shady websites, or bulk deals that seem too good to be true. That’s why choosing the right place to buy is just as important as knowing what a genuine mask should look like.

Stick to reputable sellers

Buy from authorised distributors, safety equipment suppliers, or pharmacies.
Well-known Australian retailers (both online and in-store) are far less likely to stock counterfeit PPE.
Trusted suppliers will always provide transparency about their products—who makes them, what standards they meet, and where they’re sourced.

Online stores: What to check

Not every online store is an official supplier, but that doesn’t mean you can’t buy safely. You just need to look carefully:

Check the product description for certification details, such as AS/NZS 1716 (for P2) or NIOSH/TC approval numbers (for N95).
Look for manufacturer details, model numbers, and safety standards listed clearly on the product page.
Reliable online retailers know customers are cautious, so they’ll usually highlight certification info to reassure buyers.

Red flags for online purchases

Listings with very little detail (just “N95 mask” or “P2 mask” with no certification mentioned).
Sellers with vague or generic product photos.
Unclear return policies or no customer support details.

Where you buy your mask is just as important as the mask itself. Stick to reputable suppliers when possible, and when buying online, always read the product description carefully to confirm certification details before checking out.

👉 For peace of mind, you can browse our collection of certified, genuine masks here:

Conclusion

A genuine P2, N95, KN95 or FFP2 respirator mask is more than just a label—it’s a guarantee that the respirator has been tested, certified, and built to protect you when it matters most. Counterfeits, on the other hand, can leave you exposed to the very dust, smoke, or airborne particles you’re trying to avoid.

By knowing what to look for—proper certification, manufacturer details, solid construction—and by buying from reputable suppliers, you can avoid the traps of fake respirator masks and make sure you’re properly protected. And if you’re shopping online, always read the product descriptions carefully; trustworthy stores will make certification details clear up front.

Don’t take chances with your health. Explore our range of genuine, certified P2 and N95 respirator masks from trusted Australian and global suppliers!