Just keep running into this with people and the Xbox S controller (s). Using a replacement shell defeats any internal identification as the internals and cable are swapped out. Using the typical markings for identification are good for some fakes but the Rainbow S controllers which came in like 10 colors used the MS molds and have all the same stampings as official controllers, even the "Microsoft" stamping between the memory slots. Date circles are in different locations on the back of the controller depending on the country of MFR. China = 11 O'clock above recycle logo Malaysia = Behind serial number sticker On the front at both factories they were stamped behind the Xbox Jewel, can be slightly seen using a flashlight through the memory slots. China & Malaysia = Behind the Xbox Jewel And the fakes with all the same markings except the date codes. Fake back & fake back 2 Fake front behind Xbox Jewel Hope this helps someone down the road as stickers can be removed and applied or even printed these days. It's not real if it isn't Black, Green, Blue, Orange, Burgundy, Crystal or on rare occasions Clear. (As of January 2016)