Europol Closes 292 Domain Names Selling Counterfeit Goods

Authorities seized 292 domain names for illegally selling counterfeit merchandise online, according to an Europol news release.

Europol collaborated with 25 law enforcement agencies and partners from 19 countries to closethe sites in a two-year operation dubbed ‘In Our Sites (IOS) Transatlantic V.

Most sold counterfeit products including traditional luxury goods as well as sportswear, electronics, pharmaceuticals and pirated goods such as movies and music.

“The infringements of intellectual property rights is a growing problem in our economies and for millions of producers and consumers,” says Rob Wainwright, Director of Europol. “Europol is committed to working with its international partners to crack down on the criminal networks responsible for this illegal activity.”

Since the operation began – in November of 2012 ” 1,829 domains have been seized.

“Counterfeit products being sold online not only rip off the consumer and provide shoddy products, but also put their personal financial information at risk,” Europol added.

Europol`s actions are part of the EU Action Plan, announced in July 2014 that focuses on addressing infringements of intellectual property rights in the EU.