Deepu Karchalla
Junior, Criminal Justice
Third Semester Intern, A-CAPP Center
Michigan State University

In my work at the Center for Anti-Counterfeiting and Product Protection (A-CAPP), I am focusing on finding the best practices to combat counterfeiting and protect IP. I had the privilege of speaking with three panelists from A-CAPP’s first “A Brand’s New World” virtual event, held earlier this summer. In these interviews we continued the discussion on counterfeit products being sold through the dark web and how brands can better protect their intellectual property in the online space during this complex time. Some of the topics covered relate to cryptocurrency, the “Made in China 2025 Campaign,” drop shipping, and counterfeit COVID-19 vaccines. With the winter season upon us and COVID-19 still a threat, we discussed effective methods that brands and their consumers, can take to stay safe and out of harm’s way from various counterfeit products listed on the clear/deep/dark webs. With COVID-19 stay-at-home protocols, we saw an increase in online purchases from consumers and how counterfeiters are taking advantage of listing illicit products on ecommerce sites. My discussions with the panelist detail effective methods and resources that can help combat counterfeit products.