All articles tagged with #counterfeit
Australian health authorities raised concerns about a counterfeit batch of the Indian-made rabies vaccine Abhayrab, but the manufacturer Indian Immunologicals clarified that the issue was limited to a single batch from January 2025 and did not reflect the overall safety or quality of the vaccine, emphasizing their robust testing and quality systems.
Walmart's stock declined following an investigation by CNBC that revealed safety issues and counterfeit products in its marketplace, raising concerns about its vetting processes and potential reputational damage, despite a strong analyst consensus and a positive price target outlook.
U.S. Customs intercepted over 11,000 counterfeit Labubu dolls worth over $500,000 at Seattle airport, as part of efforts to combat illegal imports and protect intellectual property, with the fake dolls being destroyed and no arrests made yet.
A sports memorabilia dealer, Brett Lemieux, was found dead after confessing on Facebook to running a $350 million counterfeit operation involving fake holograms and authentication stickers, which he claimed sold over four million counterfeit items. His death by suicide followed a police search into his business, raising concerns about the impact of counterfeit memorabilia on the industry.
Lululemon has filed a lawsuit against Costco, accusing the retailer of selling counterfeit versions of its high-end pants and hoodies at significantly lower prices, and is seeking damages and an injunction to stop the sales.
Pharmacist Neil Raichura warns against the dangers of counterfeit weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Ozempic, which have surged in demand. He highlights the risks of purchasing from uncertified providers, which can lead to severe health issues due to unsafe ingredients and unpredictable side effects. Raichura emphasizes the importance of buying from regulated pharmacies to ensure safety and proper guidance, as unregulated sources often lack support, leading to harmful outcomes. The UK has seen 18 deaths linked to such medications, underscoring the need for caution.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents seized over 3,000 counterfeit Gibson electric guitars at the Los Angeles-Long Beach Seaport, which would have been worth $18 million if authentic. The guitars, shipped from Asia, were confirmed as fake by Gibson, a leading manufacturer of premium electric guitars. The seizure highlights the ongoing issue of counterfeit goods, especially during the holiday shopping season, and the importance of consumer vigilance. The investigation, involving multiple agencies, is ongoing, with intellectual property violations carrying severe penalties.
Authorities in Southern California have seized 3,000 counterfeit Gibson guitars at the Los Angeles-Long Beach Seaport, valued at $18 million if genuine. The operation involved multiple agencies, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Gibson Inc. The fake guitars were likely intended for the e-commerce market, and experts noted several telltale signs of their inauthenticity. This seizure is the largest of counterfeit musical instruments on record, and the investigation into the operation is ongoing.
U.S. authorities have seized over 3,000 counterfeit Gibson guitars, valued at nearly $18.7 million, in a record bust. The fake guitars, shipped from Asia, were intercepted by Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security in Los Angeles. Gibson confirmed the guitars were counterfeit, as genuine Gibsons are made in the U.S. The bust highlights the risk of buying from unauthorized sources, especially during the holiday season. Gibson's CMO expressed the emotional impact on the company and its artisans.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized over 3,000 counterfeit Gibson guitars valued at $18 million in one of the largest counterfeit instrument busts in history. The fake guitars, resembling models associated with famous musicians, were intercepted at a warehouse in Carson, California. Authorities warn consumers to be cautious when purchasing instruments, especially from uncertified online marketplaces. The ongoing investigation involves the Department of Homeland Security and the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, with the counterfeit guitars set to be destroyed.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, in collaboration with Gibson and other agencies, seized over 3,000 counterfeit Gibson guitars valued at $18 million, marking the largest seizure of fake musical instruments in history. This operation highlights Gibson's ongoing efforts to protect its intellectual property, as the company also warns consumers about fraudulent products on e-commerce platforms. The seizure coincides with Gibson's 130th anniversary celebrations, which include special guitar releases.
A Massachusetts woman, Rebecca Fadanelli, is facing federal charges for allegedly posing as a nurse and administering counterfeit Botox and fillers smuggled from China and Brazil. Operating from her Skin Beaute Med Spa, Fadanelli reportedly conducted over 2,700 appointments, earning nearly $1 million. Despite her claims of not administering injections, federal prosecutors have charged her with importing and dispensing counterfeit drugs and devices. The CDC has warned of health risks associated with such counterfeit products.
Five individuals have been charged with fraud for running a fake iPhone return scam that cost Apple $12.3 million in losses. The scheme involved exchanging counterfeit iPhones for real ones at Apple Stores, which were then sold. The scam, which ran from December 2014 to March 2024, involved 16,000 fake returns and used stolen identification numbers to make the devices appear legitimate. The defendants face multiple charges, including wire fraud and identity theft, and could face years in prison if convicted.
Cases of people experiencing severe side effects from fake Botox injections given by unlicensed providers are on the rise, with at least 22 reported cases in 11 states. Symptoms range from double vision and drooping eyelids to difficulty swallowing and breathing. The FDA is actively investigating the source of counterfeit Botox, and warns that identifying features of fake products include incorrect labeling and non-English language on the packaging. Health experts advise against getting injections from unlicensed providers and emphasize the importance of verifying the authenticity of Botox products before receiving treatment.
The CDC and FDA are investigating reports of patients in nearly a dozen U.S. states being injected with counterfeit Botox, leading to harmful reactions and hospitalizations. Symptoms included blurred vision, difficulty swallowing, and weakness, similar to those seen in botulism. Public health officials are warning individuals to ensure they receive Botox from trustworthy, licensed providers and to be cautious of counterfeit products. Patients are advised to pay attention to the product, recognize common and unusual side effects, and report any concerns to healthcare professionals.