IT Forensics · OSINT
Uncovering product piracy using OSINT – Forensic tracing of counterfeit products on the internet
Counterfeit products are often sold via online marketplaces and social media, which can cause considerable damage to the brand owners concerned.
As part of existing trade mark protection cases, we carry out structured searches of publicly available listings for products suspected of being counterfeit.
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 search publicly accessible sales platforms for listings of products suspected of being counterfeit versions of a relevant brand and document the results in a manner that is forensically verifiable.
Typical areas of application
How a product piracy investigation is carried out
Relevant online marketplaces and social media platforms are systematically searched for listings relating to the relevant brand; any listings that stand out are documented with a screenshot, a timestamp and the seller’s details.
Why is product piracy investigation relevant from a forensic perspective?
Well-documented research provides a crucial basis for reporting fraudulent listings to marketplace operators and for any potential legal action.
Evidence of a recurring supplier may also be relevant to uncovering a larger distribution network.
Frequently Asked Questions
LanCologne – IT Forensics OSINT Cologne
Do you require a professional OSINT investigation into „Uncovering product piracy using OSINT"? LanCologne can assist you with the transparent, documented analysis of publicly available digital sources to complement your IT forensic, legal or in-house investigations.
Related to this topic
- Identifying fake reviews using OSINT – Conducting a forensic analysis of suspicious review patterns
- Tracking down stolen goods on online marketplaces using OSINT – conducting a forensic analysis of suspicious listings
- Documenting grey market sales using OSINT – Forensically tracing suspicious distribution channels
- Identifying fake online shops using OSINT – Conducting a forensic investigation into fraudulent online shop listings