April 28, 2021

(Photo from Internet)

On April 26, 2021, Facebook Inc. and Gucci America Inc. filed a lawsuit in the Northern District of California against counterfeiter Natalia Koch Tenko, For allegedly offering fake Gucci merchandise and other fake goods and brands on Facebook and Instagram.

According to the indictment, from at least April 2020 to April 26, 2021, the defendants "engaged in international online transactions and sold illegal counterfeit goods." The plaintiffs allege that Kokhtenko "uses Facebook and Instagram to promote its website that sells counterfeit products, including counterfeit Gucci handbags, shoes, clothing and accessories, in violation of Facebook and Instagram Terms and Policies." Facebook noted that it had previously disabled the defendants' accounts, removed various posts that promoted the sale of counterfeit goods and provided measures to protect intellectual property rights.

Luxury fashion brand Gucci says it is "known for eclectic and contemporary creations that represent the pinnacle of Italian craftsmanship and are unmatched in quality, attention to detail and imaginative design." According to Gucci, it "first used the Gucci name and logo in the United States in 1953." Gucci claims that it now "distributes leather goods, clothing, accessories, eyewear, footwear, home decor, lifestyle products, jewellery and watches, among many other products" under its various registered trademarks.

Facebook is seeking to prevent Defendants from continuing to violate Facebook and Instagram's terms and policies, and Gucci is seeking to prevent Defendants from continuing to infringe its trademarks and sell counterfeit goods. The plaintiffs are seeking a declaratory judgment in their favor, a permanent injunction, seizure and destruction of the counterfeit goods, compensation for damages, costs and other relief.

Source: Law Street

Origional Link:

https://lawstreetmedia.com/tech/its-not-gucci-facebook-gucci-sue-over-alleged-online-counterfeiting/