UKIE IP Crime Unit
The UKIE IP Crime Unit was established in 1994 to safeguard the intellectual property rights of members' products.
The UKIE IP Crime Unit:
- Responds to information about illegal games software received from members, consumers, the retail trade and other enforcement agencies.
- Conducts investigations against alleged offenders.
- Routinely makes test purchases from alleged offenders.
- Regularly visits car boot sales, computer fairs and markets to monitor product being sold.
- Assists in the execution of warrants at offenders' premises.
- Seizes infringing product.
- Assists enforcement agencies such as Trading Standards Officers, Police Authorities and the Department of Work and Pensions in investigating software piracy.
- Maintains close liaison with Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs over the importation of illegal software.
- Monitors and investigates sales of illegal product on the internet and auction sites.
- Attends trade shows and conferences to speak to consumers and traders.
- Operates a confidential hotline for anyone wishing to give information about software pirates.
- Free forensic examination and destruction of infringing discs.
- Training for enforcement agencies.
If you require further information or would like to report software piracy, please call the IP Crime Unit Helpline on 0870 513 3405 or alternatively fill out this online form. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.