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Counterfeit products hurt businesses and endanger consumers

On Behalf of | Jan 5, 2021 | Criminal Defense |

In these times of complex health issues, having quality face masks is a high priority in some industries. In fact, some Florida businesses look for particular brands of disposable face masks because they know they can trust them to provide appropriate protection on the job. However, recently, U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents seized a shipment of counterfeit products that may only be the tip of the iceberg.

Arguably the most effective and certainly among the most trusted masks for work and personal protection are from the 3M company. Therefore, a shipment of 3M products is likely a common sight in many ports across the country. However, this particular shipment aroused the suspicion of CBP agents for a number of reasons. Although the 38 boxes had labels describing the contents as made in the USA, agents noted that the products had arrived from a freight forwarder in China. Additionally, the documentation failed to prove the contents of the shipment was authentic 3M merchandise.

What was in the boxes?

Authorities discovered over 6,000 particulate respirator masks, which were heading to Jamaica. The masks are especially helpful to those who work in construction or mining and may be exposed to airborne particles. However, these were supposedly counterfeit. Authorities say rip-off versions of these masks do not go through the same testing and quality assurance standards as genuine 3M products, and unsuspecting users of such masks may be at risk of harm.

Counterfeit products can cause great damage to businesses in the United States when counterfeiters pass them off as the real thing. This does not even take into consideration the potential risk of using some fake products. Protecting one’s business against the influx of inferior knockoffs often requires fierce legal assistance.