Cybercrime as an Essential Element in Transnational Counterfeiting Schemes

Transnational counterfeiting conspiracy cases often link the developing and the developed world in illicit ways. In many of these cases, a forged copy of name-brand merchandise is produced cheaply, and transported and shipped to a destination market where it is sold to consumers at a high mark-up, producing multiple harms. An overlooked element of these counterfeiting schemes is the essential role that cybercrime plays in their operation. Several transnational organized crime and cybercrime prosecutions are examined here to assess the role of counterfeiting in these criminal operations. The three conspiracies involve electronics, pills, and perfume—all illustrating the centrality of cybercrime in their commission. The implications for investigation, policy and practice are noted.