Ottawa, June 25, 2008 - Intellectual Property Crime (IP Crime) is a growing international phenomenon that has a direct impact on the economy and poses a serious threat to public health and safety.
Between June 24-26, more than 375 law enforcement investigators, legal advisors and private sector representatives from 49 countries are meeting in Halifax, Nova Scotia for the 2008 International Law Enforcement Intellectual Property (IP) Crime Conference.
This is the second year for this event and it has quickly become the largest of its kind in North America.
"I'm very pleased that we have so many counterfeiting experts from around the world in one room," says Superintendent Ken Hansen, Director of RCMP Federal Enforcement. "We all share the same concerns, particularly the threat this crime poses to the health and safety of our citizens."
Virtually all major organized crime groups are now involved in product counterfeiting and the huge profits reaped often fund additional criminal activities.
Unfortunately, counterfeiting and copyright piracy do not carry the same stigma of many other offenses. However, John Newton, the manager of Intellectual Property for INTERPOL says the public should be aware that these products are increasingly pervasive, dangerous, and no one is immune.
"Transnational organized criminals manufacture and distribute counterfeit and pirate products on an industrialized scale with the sole intention of generating massive illicit profits. They do so without the slightest regard for often vulnerable consumers who do not realize an apparent bargain purchase can be hazardous."
The trade in counterfeit goods lacks any form of quality control necessary for ensuring that health and safety standards are met, putting all consumers at risk.
"Products bearing the trusted UL Mark help reduce consumers' risk of fire, shock, and personal injury," said Brian Monks, Vice President, Anti-Counterfeiting Operations for Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
"Any product with a fake safety certification mark can give consumers a false sense of security. This is why UL has a zero-tolerance policy for products bearing counterfeit UL Marks and why we must continue our work with Customs and law enforcement officials around the world to combat this crime."
The 2008 conference will focus on sharing ideas to meet future challenges in targeting IP Crime. It will also provide an excellent opportunity for law enforcement and other stakeholders to expand local and global partnerships, ultimately resulting in successful investigations and convictions.
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For more information please contact:
RCMP National Media Relations
(613) 993-2999
