Operation Body Armor
Overview
The National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center (IPR Center) is at the forefront of the U.S. government's fight against intellectual property theft—a problem that not only costs American industries billions in lost revenue and jobs but also endangers public health and safety. One of their key initiatives, Operation Body Armor, focuses on stopping the smuggling and illegal import of unapproved or counterfeit medical devices, personal healthcare, and beauty products. These items often enter the U.S. through international mail facilities, express courier hubs, and land borders.
Focus
Operation Body Armor was launched to plug the gaps in our entry processes that could allow counterfeit items like surgical equipment and various personal care products to slip through. The rise in these importations is linked to the ease of online shopping, where consumers often think they're buying legitimate products. However, many of these items turn out to be fake or unapproved, potentially made under unsanitary conditions without any quality control. This poses significant risks, as criminals posing as reputable brands manage to sell these hazardous products to unsuspecting American consumers.
Collaboration
To tackle this issue, Operation Body Armor brings together the expertise of Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Food and Drug Administration's Office of Criminal Investigations. The operation also works closely with industry stakeholders and various organizations in the healthcare and beauty products sector to enhance its effectiveness.
