Security News > 2020 > November > Amazon Sues Instagram, TikTok Influencers Over Knockoff Scam

Instagram and TikTok social-media influencers Kelly Fitzpatrick and Sabrina Kelly-Krejci are among 13 defendants in a lawsuit filed by Amazon, which alleges that they participated in an an online scam to sell counterfeit luxury goods.

Counterfeit goods are strictly forbidden in the Amazon marketplace, but generic products - often called "Dupes" - are allowed.

Here's how Amazon said the scheme worked: The influencers would promote items on their Instagram and TikTok accounts and point followers to an Amazon listing for a seemingly generic product.

Amazon seller account terms strictly prohibit the sale of counterfeit goods.

"These defendants were brazen about promoting counterfeits on social media and undermined the work of legitimate influencers," said Cristina Posa, associate general counsel and director, Amazon Counterfeit Crimes Unit.

News URL

https://threatpost.com/amazon-sues-instagram-tiktok-knockoff-scam/161233/