Counterfeiting stands as one of the most pervasive threats to innovation and brand integrity today. Mario Milano joins Craig Andrews to unpack this complex issue, revealing how counterfeiting extends far beyond luxury handbags to potentially dangerous pharmaceuticals, electronics, and consumer products that bypass crucial safety regulations.
The conversation takes a deep dive into how counterfeit products dramatically impact the research and development cycle of legitimate businesses. When counterfeiters steal market share and force price reductions, companies lose the profit margins necessary to fund tomorrow's innovations. Milano explains the powerful role the International Trade Commission plays in stopping imported counterfeit goods at the border—a faster alternative to traditional litigation that many businesses overlook.
Technology has transformed counterfeiting in alarming ways. What once required weeks of reverse engineering can now be accomplished in hours through 3D scanning and printing. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence introduces new complexities to intellectual property protection, as the USPTO continues to require significant human contribution for patent eligibility. Milano offers practical strategies for protecting your innovations, including filing provisional patents throughout the development process rather than waiting until completion, and consistently monitoring online marketplaces where counterfeits typically appear.
Whether you're a startup founder or established business leader, understanding how to defend against counterfeiting isn't just about protecting today's revenue—it's about preserving your ability to innovate tomorrow. Visit MilanoIP.com to learn more about securing your valuable creations from those looking to profit from your hard work.