Speech #1140110287

For example. counterfeit batteries. sometimes featuring fake trademarks. have been linked to increased risks of spontaneous firesa clear safety hazard if that battery is in a consumer product such as a childrens toy. According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency. seizures related to counterfeit intellectual property increased almost 25 percent between 2014 and 2015. While the government must continue its interception of fake goods at our borders. these numbers and the apparent rise of this problem also call for greater consumer awareness of the risks of buying counterfeit products. By designating this month the "National AntiCounterfeiting Consumer Education and Awareness" Month.