Developments in, and availability of, new production technologies which have reduced the cost and time necessary to make illegal copies of goods have played a part in this growth. This has contributed to growth in markets for counterfeit goods as the amount and range of products create increased profits for those involved in this activity (Savona and Mignone, 2004). In addition, increasing consumer access to the internet – especially through midband and broadband services – has enabled new methods of distribution for counterfeit goods through online auction sites and via peer-to-peer systems. These digital copies are commonly referred to.
