Legal Definitions - bogus

Bogus refers to something that is not genuine, authentic, or real. It describes something that is false, fake, or counterfeit, often created with the intent to deceive.

• Example 1: A consumer receives an email claiming to be from their bank, asking them to click a link and verify their account details due to "suspicious activity." However, the email contains grammatical errors and the link leads to a website that looks slightly off from the bank's official site.

  Explanation 1: This email is likely bogus because it is not genuinely from the bank but is a fraudulent attempt to trick the recipient into revealing personal information. The email and the linked website are fake imitations designed to appear authentic.

• Example 2: During a job application process, a candidate submits a resume listing a degree from a prestigious university. A background check later reveals that the university has no record of the candidate ever attending or graduating.

  Explanation 2: The degree listed on the resume is bogus because it is not a genuine credential. The claim of having earned that degree is false and fabricated.

• Example 3: A street vendor is selling what they claim are "designer handbags" at a significantly reduced price. Upon closer inspection, the stitching is poor, the logo is slightly misaligned, and the material feels cheap compared to an authentic designer item.

  Explanation 3: The handbags being sold are bogus because they are not genuine designer products but rather counterfeit items made to look like the real thing, often infringing on trademarks and deceiving buyers.