UK's IP crime unit looks back on successful first months

The UK's Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) says it has suspended more than 2,500 websites selling counterfeit goods since its launch last year.

The unit marked World IP Day (on April 26) by providing an update on its performance since last September, estimating that the takedowns have deprived criminal gangs of distribution channels for counterfeits worth "tens of millions of pounds".

The suspended websites purported to sell well known designer goods including UGG boots, GHD hair straighteners, Abercrombie, Hollister and Jack Wills clothing, Gucci products and Thomas Sabo jewellery, said PIPCU.

The items received by purchasers were poor quality and sometimes dangerous counterfeit goods and - in some cases - were never even delivered.

" Consumers also need to be aware that by accessing websites like this they are running the risk of their personal details being compromised and being used for other fraudulent scams, as well as the exposing their computer to malicious malware," said PIPCU head DCI Andy Fyfe.