From a purely economical standpoint, it’s easy enough to understand the allure of the knockoff handbag; to be able to get one’s hands on a much-coveted designer “it” bag for a mere fraction of the retail cost is a very tempting thing indeed. Although it may seem like a benign enough endeavour, the counterfeit goods market actually goes a lot deeper than just providing a cost-effective accessories alternative for trend-conscious fashionistas. These days, most modern counterfeiting operations are actually run by brutal organized crime syndicates, making the purchasing of these goods anything but a victimless crime. Counterfeit designer goods sales have been linked to terrorism, prostitution, human trafficking, and the drug trade — and that is only a few items off of a very long list.
Recent times have seen a massive crackdown on counterfeit designer goods, yet counterfeit purchasing continues to rise. Back in 2008, counterfeiting was estimated to be approximately a $650 billion industry, with the proceeds rising every year.
As recently as 2012, organizations like the CFDA (council of Fashion Designers of America) partnered with internet retailers like the auction house Ebay, launching the “You Can’t Fake Fashion” campaign; a promotional campaign that is aimed at raising awareness of the consequences of purchasing counterfeit handbags and accessories. Third-Party sites like PayPal have also joined in the effort, and may now be held liable for any payment processed that may have resulted in the sale of counterfeit goods.
Although the industry may be far from completely eradicating counterfeit designer goods trade, the key likely lies in raising consumer awareness and accountability through education.
