Overview
In June 2023, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) created the Government Supply Chain Investigations Unit (GSCIU) to combat counterfeit and substandard goods in the U.S. Government supply chain, funded by Congress.
The GSCIU enhances risk management across the federal supply chain, expanding beyond microelectronics to include items like protective gear, weapons, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.
The GSCIU uses public and private partnerships and modernizes processes to analyze data and fight supply chain threats effectively.
Programs
Operation Chain Reaction
Operation Chain Reaction, started in 2011, stops counterfeit microelectronic components from entering the DoD supply chain. Today, it focuses on all DoD-bound components.
Operation Genuine Valor
Operation Genuine Valor, launched in 2023, ensures counterfeit medical supplies don't reach the VA supply chain, protecting over 9 million veterans.
Operation Gung Ho
Operation Gung Ho, working with Chain Reaction, intercepts counterfeit small arms, body armor, and ammunition before they enter the government supply chain.
Operation Rollback
Operation Rollback identifies counterfeit sellers on e-commerce platforms to prevent substandard goods from entering the U.S. government supply chain.
Impact
The GSCIU leads the federal response to counterfeit components, medications, weapons, and ammunition threatening national security and veterans. By strengthening infrastructure and partnerships with industry, GSCIU protects American businesses' intellectual property and national defense. Businesses are invited to join in protecting intellectual property.
Call to Action
Manufacturers, vendors, and users can report suspected counterfeit components on the IPR Center website: https://www.iprcenter.gov/referral/report-ip-theft-form.
The GSCIU will review the information, work with partners, and develop a plan to remove the counterfeits and investigate those responsible.
Resources
- Software Supply Chain Visibility Tools
https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/software-supply-chain-visibility-tools-cisa
Partners
See Also
Counterfeit Goods
The Intellectual Property Unit coordinates the U.S. government’s response to counterfeiting and intellectual property crimes.