IT Forensics · OSINT

Identifying fake online shops using OSINT – Conducting a forensic investigation into fraudulent online shop listings

Fraudulent online shops often use the brand names of well-known companies to deceive customers and obtain payments for non-existent goods.

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As part of our work on existing cases, we carry out structured investigations into publicly available evidence of such fraudulent online shop offers.

Why LanCologne?

Since its foundation, LanCologne has specialised in professional IT forensics. Our staff have decades of experience in the field of information technology and assist companies, solicitors, private individuals and, on a regular basis, the courts in the technical investigation of complex digital matters.

Our OSINT investigations are always carried out as a complementary component to existing IT forensic, legal or internal corporate enquiries. Every step of the investigation and every piece of digital evidence found is documented and, where technically possible, archived to ensure traceability even if the original online content is subsequently altered or deleted.

Our services

We investigate publicly available information relating to a relevant online shop and document any discernible evidence of fraud or trademark infringement in a manner that is forensically verifiable.

Typical areas of application

Identifying fraudulent online shop listings using another brand’s name
Supplementing trade mark protection and fraud investigations
Assistance in assessing the extent of the damage
Basis for reporting to hosting providers or registries
Judicial and non-judicial expert reports
Collaboration with solicitors and trade mark owners

This is how an investigation into fake online shops is carried out

The relevant online shop is checked for publicly identifiable signs of fraud or unauthorised use of trademarks by means of WHOIS searches, technical analysis and structured manual checks; the findings are documented.

Why is the investigation of fake online shops of forensic relevance?

Well-documented research provides a vital foundation for removing fraudulent listings and protecting one’s own brand.

Evidence of a systematic approach may also be relevant when taking action against the operators responsible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can LanCologne have a fake shop taken down?+
We document the relevant facts using forensic methods; the site is taken offline via the relevant hosting providers or registries, in consultation with the client where necessary.
Are test orders also placed with the shop?+
Only following prior consultation with the client and within the limits permitted by law.
Are any related fraudulent shops also identified?+
Insofar as publicly available features suggest a connection, yes.

LanCologne – IT Forensics OSINT Cologne

Do you require a professional OSINT investigation into „Identifying fake online shops using OSINT"? LanCologne can assist you with the transparent, documented analysis of publicly available digital sources to complement your IT forensic, legal or internal corporate enquiries.

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