Fighting Fake Goods: How Police Are Getting Smarter
In the U.S., fake goods are rampant. From fake medicine to unsafe electronics, these items pose a significant threat to both consumers and public safety. The National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) is taking a stand by endorsing a specialized training program called CTIPS. This program equips police officers with the skills to identify and halt the sale of counterfeit products.
The Gap in Law Enforcement Training
Most police training programs overlook counterfeit goods, despite their strong ties to organized crime. CTIPS bridges this gap by offering targeted training that covers:
- Identifying fake products
- Understanding supply chain movements
- Building strong legal cases against criminals
Health and Safety Risks
Counterfeit goods aren’t just a financial issue—they pose serious health and safety risks. For example:
- Fake medicine can be dangerous or ineffective
- Unsafe electronics may cause fires or electrical hazards
By recognizing these risks, officers can better protect the public.
Global Collaboration and Best Practices
CTIPS also teaches officers about international best practices and cross-border cooperation to combat counterfeit trade. The NCPC views CTIPS as a critical tool in the fight against illicit trade and urges all law enforcement agencies to adopt it.
Research-Backed Certification
The CTIPS certification is based on research from Michigan State University’s Anti-Counterfeiting and Product Protection Center. It is the first nationwide certification validating law enforcement expertise in:
- Intellectual property enforcement
- Public-private collaboration
Officers who complete the training will be equipped to dismantle criminal networks involved in illicit trade.
