Fort Lauderdale, FL. Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies in Florida executed search warrants at several locations today in a multi-agency investigation into an alleged counterfeit coupon ring with a multimillion-dollar impact.
It was reported that several people were arrested and charged with multiple felony offenses. If convicted, they could face prison time, restitution, and other penalties.
The Coupon Information Corporation (CIC) originally brought the situation to the attention of law enforcement officials. CIC and its Members supported the case. Each law enforcement team had access to the CIC® Suspect Coupon Checker App to quickly verify the status of most counterfeit coupons. CIC also operated a secure online call center staffed by coupon-industry experts to provide real-time support to field agents during the raids —an industry first.
CIC Executive Director Bud Miller said, “Reports indicate that this is the largest and most sophisticated counterfeit coupon case identified to date. The efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies, manufacturers, and other industry participants made this case possible.” He added, “We look forward to justice being served, including the prosecution to the fullest extent of the law of those who purchased counterfeit coupons. CIC appreciates the work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the other law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation.”
CIC urges industry participants to adopt a layered defense strategy and emerging loss-prevention technologies, including Positive Offer Files, Negative Offer Files, AI (8112) barcodes, and the CIC® Suspect Coupon Checker App. A layered defense and cooperation with CIC are sound security practices that help protect shareholder interests.
The Coupon Information Corporation (CIC®) is a nonprofit association of proactive consumer product manufacturers committed to fighting coupon fraud in both paper and digital formats. For four decades, CIC has provided leadership, value, and expertise to manufacturers and their shareholders.
Report illegal coupon activity to https://couponinformationcenter.com/contact-us/.
Operation Queenpins II CIC News Release
Retailers: Scan this QR code to register for CIC’s Suspect Coupon Checker App. It’s Free!
