The EUIPO Observatory has recently released two new studies:

1) Vendor accounts on third party trading platforms

This research unveils online business models infringing IPRs, in particular tactics, techniques and procedures used by vendors on third-party trading platforms. It also provides an overview of the various stages of infringing goods online, enforcement actions that can be deployed, as well as emerging forms of marketing of IP-infringing goods on social media and live streaming.

The study shows how the supply of counterfeit and pirated products via online marketplaces is a lucrative and well-organised activity and aims to raise awareness in this regard among EU and third-country citizens, businesses, authorities and policy makers.

To read the full study, please click here.

2) OECD-EUIPO Misuse of e-commerce for trade in counterfeits

The misuse of e-commerce has become particularly alarming during the COVID-19 pandemic, given the increasing volume of e-crimes.

This study uses a statistical methodology to evaluate the degree of abuse of the online environment and provides highlights of government actions and industry initiatives to counter trade in counterfeit goods. The aim is to better understand such threat and develop effective governance responses to support post-COVID recovery.

To read the full study, please click here.