Law Enforcement Training Curriculum

C1: The Importance of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

This module discusses the basic information every Customs officer needs to know about intellectual property (IP), intellectual property rights (IPR), and the impact of intellectual property rights violations on businesses, governments and consumers in terms of lost revenue, reduced employment, and risks to life and health. We will also talk about the obligation and opportunity Customs Administrations have to address the illicit trade of protected goods and introduce key terms associated with this field.

C2: A Brief History and Overview of IP and IPR

This module provides a broad overview and brief history of intellectual property (IP) and intellectual property rights (IPR) and the international agreements that provide Customs officers with the framework for border enforcement. We will also explain the various types of intellectual property and the steps both Customs and rights owners can take to ensure the greatest opportunity for success in detecting and interdicting illicit goods crossing international borders.

C3: The International Supply Chain and IPR

This module covers the basic principles of supply chain management and how they can be a critical tool in the fight against intellectual property violations. We will identify the key players and procedures involved in managing a secure supply chain. We will also discuss how these principles, when effectively applied by both Customs authorities and rights holders, can have a significant impact on mitigating the flow of counterfeit and pirated goods.

C4: The Critical Importance of Government Agency Cooperation in IPR Protection

This module outlines the basic principles of working in partnership with other enforcement groups and how this is the most effective way to tackle the growing IP crime problem. We will identify some critical partners in this effort including other law enforcement agencies, international government offices, and private investigation sources. We will also demonstrate that an effective campaign against IP crime relies on cooperation from many enforcement groups, not only at the physical border but also at local and regional markets. Finally, we will describe some of the more effective roles, responsibilities, and methodologies used in collaborative law enforcement relationships.

C5: Customs Partnership with IP Rights Holders

This module discusses the importance of working in partnership with intellectual property rights holders is essential in detecting, deterring, and stopping the flow of counterfeit products. We will demonstrate how sharing information and resources benefits both Customs authorities and rights holders, particularly in the identification of illicit goods. We will also show how these partnerships can prove productive and valuable when established on principles of mutual respect, good communication, and transparency. We will outline important principles related to maximizing financial resources and understanding applicable legal restrictions. And finally, we will discuss the importance of treating shared information, particularly proprietary information, with the greatest of care to ensure trade secrets are sufficiently protected.

C6: IPR Risk Management – A Critical Tool for Discovering IPR Violations

In this course, we will be discussing risk management and the critical role it plays in Customs border management. We will define risk management and targeting and discuss how these concepts are fundamental to building a risk-based approach to addressing IP theft and illicit trade. We will provide instruction on the process of conducting a risk assessment and outline key sources of information. Finally, we will discuss some of the analytical tools that can be used to facilitate the risk assessment process, including importer and exporter profiles.

C7: Customs Examination at the Border

In this course, we will be discussing the important work of conducting IP examinations at the border. We will begin by reviewing common IPR violations and the steps that can be taken to verify that an imported good has protected status. Next, we will review some of the tools available to Customs officers to assist in the examination process. We will also highlight some of the red flags that can alert Customs officers to potential IPR violations. Finally, we will talk about working with the rights owner and concluding an investigation.

C8: Customs Considerations for IPR Legal Proceedings

In this course, we will be discussing the legal aspects of IP crime, the punitive actions that can be taken against the IP criminal, and the disposition of infringing products. We will begin by reviewing IP law and the steps rights holders must take to secure protected status for their products. Next, we will discuss detention, seizure, evidence collection, and the remedies that can be used to address IPR violations. Finally, we will explain the options for the ultimate disposition of seized goods, including the forfeiture and destruction of infringing products.