SAN FRANCISCO – NFL officials are alerting fans about the dangers of purchasing counterfeit gear as the big game approaches.
During a press conference attended by NonStop Local’s Noah Boelter, officials highlighted the financial and personal information risks posed by counterfeiters.
They reported that over the past year, more than 78 million counterfeit items have been seized across over 25,000 seizures, with a total value exceeding $7.4 billion.
Yvonne Arvello from the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center emphasized that Operation Team Player is a continuous effort to combat the sale of counterfeit gear.
She advised fans to be cautious when shopping for game memorabilia. “Fans, ahead of the big game, shop smart,” she said. “You’re buying a jersey from your favorite player. So I’m a souvenir to remember the big game. Stick to trusted retail, especially when shopping online, look for quality session, official security label and proper markets. Keep your receipts. Check your banned statements, and if something doesn’t add up, report it right away.”
The league aims to educate fans on identifying authentic Super Bowl 16 merchandise.
