Watch CBS News

FBI Targets Pirated Movie, Music Sales With PSA Campaign

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Officials with the FBI's Los Angeles field office kicked off a public information campaign Tuesday to warn against the potential economic impact of the sale of counterfeit movies, music and other goods.

KNX 1070's Megan Goldsby reports federal officials released a series of public service announcements (PSAs) highlighting the devastating effects of intellectual property theft and cyber bullying.

FBI Targets Counterfeit Movie Sales With PSA Campaign

Six PSAs with titles including "The Rip Off" and "Toxic Meds" are aimed at making consumers aware of both the health and safety dangers and financial and security costs associated with the illegal theft of proprietary information, according to the FBI.

New figures suggest the theft of proprietary information can translate to billions in losses to U.S. companies and adversely impact the American economy, and even in some cases, damage national security, the FBI said.

"These crimes can fuel global organized crime, contribute to slave labor, and compromise the creative expressions in the fields of arts and entertainment," said Bill L. Lewis assistant director in charge of the FBI's Los Angeles Division.

LAPD Detective Barret Halcrom estimated some pirated movie vendors - who are frequently seen on the streets of downtown L.A. selling DVDs on a blanket - can earn between $20,000 to $80,000 per month.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.