Website addresses counterfeit component problem

The site will incorporate an online database to enable members of the electronics supply network to share information on suspected counterfeit components. Industry experts estimate that counterfeit electronic components entering the UK may be costing the sector as much as £1billion annually. According to UKEA, many of the counterfeit components currently being detected are destined for safety critical systems. The new web site, accessible here, will enable details of suspected counterfeit components, including photographs, to be uploaded to build a searchable database and will enable members of the supply network to add further information and comment on entries via an online forum. All levels of experience and knowledge are catered for by providing background information to the origins of the counterfeiting problem and the work being undertaken worldwide by various Government and industry organisations to address it, as well as providing summaries of the types of components being counterfeited and the most common counterfeiting techniques. Derek Boyd, chairman of the UK Electronics Alliance and chief executive of the National Microelectronics Forum , said: ''The Alliance was formed in 2006 to provide coordination for the UK electronics industry and with Government on key issues so I am delighted that it has been able to take a leading role in developing and managing this important tool to help electronics companies of all sizes combat this growing problem.'' Adam Fletcher, chairman of UKEA member association AFDEC added that industry collaboration was crucial in driving producers of counterfeit components out of the supply network. He said resolving the problem was "reliant on our industry collaborating well, regulating itself better and gaining international government and their enforcement agencies' support. We believe this new website will be a key part of that process." The UK Intellectual Property Office estimates that Intellectual property related crime (counterfeiting and piracy) costs the UK at least £9billion a year. In addition, the US Patent & Trademark office notes that 9% of all counterfeit goods seized are electronic in nature. Electronic goods become counterfeit as a result of components within them. Taken together, these figures indicate that the value of electronic counterfeit goods entering the UK could be up to £1bn.