How to Report Someone Selling Counterfeit Goods

Counterfeit products pose safety, legal, and economic risks for consumers and brands alike. This guide outlines practical steps to report suspected counterfeiters in the United States, how to choose the right agency, and what information to provide. It also explains how online marketplaces handle counterfeit reports and what to expect after filing a complaint. Timely reporting helps authorities disrupt illegal activity and protect legitimate brands and buyers.

Identify Counterfeit Goods And Seller Behavior

Counterfeit items imitate genuine brands, often sold at unusually low prices, with packaging that looks suspicious or inconsistent. Common red flags include unavailable product details, vague seller information, mismatched logos, and defective or substandard quality. Sellers may operate across multiple platforms or use new accounts to avoid detection. For marketplace buyers, disreputable sellers frequently refuse refunds or offer vague return policies. Document these indicators to support a credible report.

Gather Evidence Before You Report

Strong evidence improves the chances of a successful investigation. Collect the following: product photos showing packaging, labels, and logos; screenshots of product listings with price, seller name, and platform; URLs and timestamps; receipts or order numbers; statements from the seller about authenticity; and any communication that reveals intent to deceive. Preserve physical items if you’ve purchased them, keeping them in original packaging when possible. Organize materials in a clear file or folder for submission.

Determine The Best Reporting Path

Different agencies handle different aspects of counterfeiting. For shipments or products entering the United States, consult the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center (IPR Center). For deceptive advertising or consumer protection concerns, contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). For online sales and cyber-related activity, file with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or state consumer protection offices. STOPfakes.gov is a central resource linking agencies and reporting options.

Report Counterfeit Goods To Government Agencies

• U.S. Customs And Border Protection (CBP) — Report counterfeit shipments or import fraud to CBP. Use the IP Infringement section and the IPR Center to submit information about fake goods crossing borders, including shipment details, supplier information, and evidence of trademark or copyright infringement.
• National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center — A hub that coordinates federal IP enforcement. Submissions can inform multi-agency investigations and disruptions of counterfeit networks.
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC) — File complaints about deceptive advertising, branding, or online sales practices. The FTC uses consumer reports to pursue enforcement and educate the public about IP rights.
• FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) — For online scams, counterfeit marketplaces, and cyber-enabled IP violations. Submit a detailed report with links, seller information, and impact.
• State Attorney General And Consumer Protection Division — Many states accept reports about counterfeit goods and unfair business practices. They can initiate state-level enforcement or mediation.
• U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) And STOPfakes.gov — For trademark violations, licensing concerns, and public guidance. STOPfakes.gov provides a structured way to file IP-related complaints and access resources.

Report Counterfeit Goods On Online Marketplaces

Most major platforms provide a formal process to report counterfeit listings. Use the platform’s counterfeit policy or help center to submit evidence such as product photos, seller details, and purchase information. Key steps include:

• Navigate to the reporting or safety section of the marketplace.
• Provide precise listing URLs, seller name, and a description of why the product is counterfeit.
• Upload evidence: photos, receipts, and communications with the seller.
• Ask for removal of the listing and for possible seller penalties or suspensions.

Examples of platforms that offer these processes include Amazon, eBay, Etsy, and Walmart. Platforms typically respond with a case number and timeline. If a listing is not promptly removed, follow up with additional evidence and consider escalating to other authorities if fraud or safety concerns persist.

What To Submit In A Report

A clear, complete report increases the likelihood of action. Include: the exact product name, brand, and model; country of origin and any labeling details; how the product differs from a genuine item; the seller’s name, contact details, and platform; purchase or transaction details; and your evidence package. If available, include serial numbers, UPCs, or manufacturer codes. Explain potential safety concerns, such as harmful materials or misrepresented claims about medical or safety-related benefits.

What Happens After A Report

Once submitted, agencies review the information for credibility and scope. Actions may include contacting the seller, seizing counterfeit shipments, or pursuing civil or criminal enforcement. Investigations can take time, and outcomes vary by case. Platforms may remove listings, suspend accounts, or share information with brand owners for further legal action. Consumers may receive status updates, but in some cases, notices may be limited to confirm receipt and next steps.

Tips For A Successful Report

• Provide verifiable links and high-quality evidence.
• Be precise about how the item is counterfeit or misrepresented.
• Avoid sharing sensitive personal information beyond what is necessary for the report.
• Follow up politely if you do not receive a timely response.
• Coordinate with brand owners if you are reporting on behalf of a company or as a private consumer.

Key Resources And Contacts

Use these central resources to guide reporting efforts and access additional guidance:

• STOPfakes.gov — Comprehensive hub for IP enforcement, case submissions, and protected channels for reporting counterfeit goods.
• FBI IC3 — Report online crimes including counterfeit marketplaces and IP infringement.
• CBP IPR Center — Handles cross-border IP enforcement and counterfeit shipments.
• FTC Consumer Sentinel — Public portal for consumer complaints about fraud and deceptive business practices.
• State Attorney General Consumer Protection — State-level guidance and reporting pathways.
• Brand Owner And Platform Policies — Most brands publish policy pages or contact methods for counterfeit concerns; combined with platform reporting, this helps accelerate action.

Sample Reporting Checklist

Use this checklist to prepare a report:

1. Product details: brand, model, SKU, packaging, labeling.
2. Seller data: name, email, storefront, platform, contact attempts.
3. Evidence: photos, listing URLs, timestamps, receipts, communications.
4. Impact: safety concerns, potential consumer harm, financial loss.
5. Proposed action: listing removal, investigation, seizure, or civil action.