Counterfeits: There's More At Stake When It's A Fake

The London police launched a new campaign against piracy, warning the buyers against counterfeiting that allows fraudsters to access illegitimate funds and set up new sites to sell goods in their name. 

A copyright owner can use their work for a fee, but there are many instances where the firms use the brand name without the creator's permission. 

If you are buying a product from a legal supplier, you can claim the statutory rights, but in case of imitation, you have no right to get a refund or exchange of goods in case of malpractice.  

Also, such businesses generate illegitimate money often used in funding criminal activities, impacting genuine traders, who have to close businesses and in the process, many lose jobs. 

Emily's story

How To Protect Yourself?

• Always buy products through reputable sellers and sites. Check all the buyers' reviews and discuss them with people on different forums and blogs. 

• The payment site's address should begin with – "HTTPS" and always keep the system's security features and firewall up to date to avoid a loss.

• Never download or visit web pages mentioned in unsolicited emails. Do not send any of your personal or bank details to such emails. Watch out for pop-ups asking to get your card details when you are in the payment stage. Do not enter your card PIN online.

• Always check the offers that look too good. Check where the trader is based and look for their postal address. 

• Always seek a return policy, which a rogue trader will not offer. In case of fraud, report it to the regulatory bodies.