Abstract
Counterfeiting of products is a serious issue in the world market, as it affects brand value, consumer confidence, and public safety. Holograms, barcodes, or packaging markers are considered to be quite traditional authentication mechanisms that are easy to reproduce and cannot be utilized in the fight against contemporary counterfeiting modes. This study offers a Crypto Based Product Authentication System, which is a combination of blockchain, cryptographic hashing, role-based access, and verification based on QR code to establish end-toend product authenticity. To ensure the retail sale verification, the system applies the Hardhat-based Ethereum test network for decentralized and immutable recording of product lifecycle data, AES-256 encryption as the way of securing QR code identifiers, and the use of the SHA-256 hash to maintain the privacy of customers. Details on the movement of the products can be updated on the blockchain by authorized users, such as manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and staff members, which ensures an immutable supply-chain trail. Customers can authenticate products through encrypted QR scan and identity validation based on OTP. Customers have an independent reporting system that enables them to report suspected counterfeit products so that verifiers can hear their complaints and reward them.