There have been a couple of stories reported recently, which suggest that a tougher line is to be taken against those who deal in counterfeit goods. 

But it's not just the sellers who are coming under the spotlight. 

If you are tempted to buy fake goods, you may like to read on.

There was an interesting article on the Today Zaman news website recently, about punishing internet users who illegally download copyright material, such as films and music.   Today Zaman article

The Turkish Ministry of Tourism & Culture is proposing to change the law to introduce new, tougher penalties for this type of activity.  In order to get results, the inspection teams charged with rooting out these law-breakers will be paid bonuses for results.

KTLN wonders if the days of cut price bargain CDs and DVDs in certain Turkish markets are numbered.  First CDs and DVDs - what next? 

And the BBC has reported that it is not just the sellers of these goods that are being targeted.  Anyone who owns counterfeit goods may soon feel a little more nervous passing through customs.  France and Italy are taking a particularly hard line.  The UK stance is currently aimed at educating consumers, but how long will it be before the UK and other EU countries crack down? 

The prospect of an HMRC official tapping you on the shoulder and asking to take a closer look at your 'expensive' branded bag is getting closer.  See the following BBC news report

If you do get that tap on the shoulder, and you are found to have a fake bag, football shirt, watch or whatever, not only will you lose the item, but under EU legislation you may be fined twice the value of the genuine article.  That's right - not what you paid - the cost of the real article.

Is this the beginning of the end for 'genuine fakes'?