When working on a vehicle, it’s always less of a headache to order parts and not have to wonder whether they’re faulty or not. Or, more importantly, whether they’re even the brand on the listing. But two websites recently got caught allegedly faking brands, and they’re now under seizure by the U.S. government.
Following an investigation prompted by several undercover buys made and uncovered, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations announced on Thursday the seizure of Florida-based websites billettechnology.com and custombilletstore.com. Both websites now feature a message from the agency at their link, which states that the domain names have been seized “pursuant to a seizure warrant issued by a United States District Court.”
Though the websites are now down, the agency’s press release said they had dozens of parts for sale that included aftermarket and custom listings with Chrysler trademarks. Included in the faux Chrysler parts were radiator covers, power steering covers and valve covers.
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According to the release, special agents purchased parts from the websites in late 2015 and confirmed that the items were fake with the trademark holders. From the press release:
“Seizing these websites that allegedly sell trademark-infringing auto parts helps to stem the flow of faulty products being introduced into the economy,” said Marlon Miller, special agent in charge of HSI Detroit. “Homeland Security Investigations will continue to aggressively target and dismantle operations that blatantly disregard intellectual property rights.”
Internet shopping is a scary place, whether it be for trademark infringement or shipping prices. Shop cautiously out there, folks.
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