For years, the fight against fakes has focused on online marketplaces, social media platforms and rogue websites.

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Yet Intellectual Property Office (IPO) data published in September suggests counterfeiters may be returning to more traditional sales channels, with a growing share of Trading Standards investigations now linked to outdoor markets, shops and car boot sales. At the same time, observations and concerns about counterfeit and design-infringing goods being sold via websites and social media have declined.

It seems as though Del Boy’s days of Hooky Street deals are returning, as the trade in fake goods with no money back and no guarantee shifts offline. This may be a result of an IPO-led crackdown, as well as changing consumer behaviour. In 2022, the government launched its first IP counter-infringement strategy, involving collaboration with law enforcement and industry. The IPO has worked with companies like Vinted to tackle fakes and run awareness campaigns to help consumers choose safe, not fake, products.

E-commerce has, understandably, been a strong focus for counter-infringement efforts. Online shopping is booming and criminal activity tends to follow the money, with the IPO identifying online marketplaces and social media as key routes for counterfeiting products. Is increased scrutiny and law enforcement making digital channels less appealing for criminals and pushing........

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