Brand Piracy in the Münsterland and Westphalia

The detectives of Kurtz Detective Agency Münster work in close cooperation with trademark law experts and counterfeit specialists who are able to identify virtually any product imitation as such. Innovative companies naturally require protection to safeguard their patented products from imitation. Our investigators are pleased to act on their behalf: +49 251 7009 0014.

Cross-Industry Problem with Economic Damage Potential and High Health Risk

Brand piracy occurs in almost every industry and causes not only enormous economic damage but can also pose a serious threat to public safety and health. Even counterfeit car parts such as brake pads flood the markets. Due to their poor quality, they are more prone to failure and can thus endanger the lives and well-being of buyers and uninvolved third parties. Pharmaceuticals and cosmetic products are also counterfeited using inferior ingredients and may directly result in death. In addition, inadequate instructions for use (keyword: overdose) and limited product functionality can lead to sometimes dramatic consequences. Warranty and manufacturer liability naturally do not apply to counterfeit products.

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Anyone who consumes counterfeit medicines or preparations is gambling with their own life. The ingredients are usually inferior and hazardous to health.

Legal Situation in Germany

In Germany, it is generally prohibited to place counterfeit products on the market or otherwise introduce them into the economic cycle. Exceptions apply to private purchases of counterfeit goods abroad: In the case of goods “without commercial character” that are carried in the traveller’s personal luggage, customs authorities will not intervene if they:

 

  • do not exceed a purchase value of €430 in the country of purchase for sea and air travel;

  • do not exceed a purchase value of €300 in the country of purchase for all other types of travel;

  • do not exceed a purchase value of €175 in the country of purchase for travellers under 15 years of age;

  • are not imported by persons suspected of engaging in commercial trade in counterfeit goods (commercial character).