CBP Warns Holiday Shoppers Against Counterfeit Goods
U.S.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has urged consumers to avoid purchasing counterfeit
products during the holiday season, warning that fake goods can endanger
health, support criminal networks, and harm the economy. In FY 2025, CBP seized
nearly 79 million counterfeit items valued at over $7.3 billion and advised
shoppers to buy only from reputable sources, verify product authenticity, and
report fakes through official channels.
Stay safe
from the dangers of fake products
As
American families prepare for holiday shopping, U.S. Customs and Border
Protection urges shoppers to avoid purchasing counterfeit products, which may
cause harm to consumers, their families, businesses, and the nation’s economy.
“CBP is
on the front line of stopping illicit goods from entering the country,” said
Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino, of CBP’s Office of
Field Operations. “It is crucial that shoppers understand that buying cheap,
inauthentic goods is not victimless. It can cause harm to those you care about
because of toxic materials and can even fund criminal activities.”
Illegitimate
sales are some of the most profitable transnational crimes. Counterfeiters sell
inauthentic versions of popular products in response to trends, often through
online sources, which adversely impacts legitimate U.S. businesses. These
items, including fake medications, perfumes, and cosmetics; children’s toys and
costumes; fashion, jewelry, and luxury products; and
unsafe electronics and automative parts, can pose serious health and safety
risks to American consumers.
CBP helps
disrupt these illegal practices. In fiscal year 2025, CBP seized nearly 79
million counterfeit items with a combined Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price
value of over $7.3 billion, had these items been genuine. Counterfeit clothing,
consumer electronics, toys, and medications were among the top seized items.
“It is
against the law to import counterfeit or pirated merchandise, and individual
consumers may be liable for penalties or fines even if ordered by mistake,”
said Susan S. Thomas, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner of CBP’s Office
of Trade. “Don’t be fooled by counterfeits and use due diligence when making
purchases.”
Consumers
can protect themselves and their families by using the following best practices
when making online purchases:
·
Trust
your instincts. If a
deal seems too good to be true, the item is probably fake. Shop from reputable
online sources.
·
Research
the product. Look at product photos, reviews,
and seller information.
·
Avoid
suspicious websites. Avoid
online sources containing typos or that lack a refund policy or contact method.
·
Prioritize
secure payments and protect your data. Look for
eCommerce websites that begin with https:// (the “s” stands for secure
payment). Keep your electronic devices updated with cybersecurity protections.
·
Inspect
the packaging and product upon arrival. Look for missing safety seals, unusual packaging, typos, or broken
items.
·
Spread
Awareness. Let your friends, family, and
co-workers know about counterfeit goods sold on illicit websites. If you
receive a fake good, report it through CBP’s Trade Violations Reporting
platform or the National IPR Center. Your actions can
make online shopping safer and smarter for all.