In addition to the threat that counterfeit products have on Canada’s economy, counterfeit goods are not made to the same safety regulations, certifications and quality controls as authentic products. Often, counterfeit goods have been found to contain dangerous toxins and contaminants that are harmful to health. Moreover, counterfeit electrical products pose a serious risk for causing shock, explosion, or fires.
According to the RCMP,
- There is a noticeable yearly increase in the number of occurrences involving harmful counterfeit products — from 11.5% in 2005 to 30.4% in 2012.
- In 2012, over 200 cases of harmful counterfeit products were investigated, including commodities such as toys, pharmaceuticals, perfume, integrated circuits, makeup, headphones, wheel bearings, cellular phones, and batteries.
Percentages of Occurrences Involving Harmful Products
Source: http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/fep-pelf/ipr-dpi/report-rapport-2012-eng.htm