Counterfeiting and piracy are global problems that affect all sectors. They not only harm large corporations but also many small and medium-sized companies, consumers and the state. Read on to find out more.

A counterfeit is an unlawful imitation of an original product. Counterfeiters try to imitate the characteristics, material or look of a legally protected product. Their aim is to take advantage of the good reputation of the original product, which is associated with a trade mark, an indication of source (such as ‘Swiss made’), a design or a patent.

Piracy is the unlawful copying of works such as music, software and films. If films, music, books or images are used without a licence, this is considered to be piracy. Piracy is an infringement of copyright and related rights.