British Cycling Brand Teams Up with IP Protection Experts to Tackle Fraudulent Sites
Rapha, the prominent British cycling apparel brand, is taking decisive action against a growing number of fraudulent websites targeting its customers. The company has enlisted the help of intellectual property (IP) protection specialists to shut down websites that are offering heavily discounted Rapha products, but delivering nothing in return.
The latest fraudulent site identified by Rapha is raphacycling-sale.shop, one of several that have emerged in recent months. These sites entice shoppers with seemingly unbeatable deals, only to take their money and leave them with no products, according to the brand.
“We’ve seen an unfortunate rise in counterfeit websites, with fraudsters luring customers with offers that are simply too good to be true. Once customers make their purchases, they are left empty-handed,” a Rapha spokesperson stated.
To combat this issue, Rapha is urging its customers to report any suspicious websites or offers directly to the brand. The company is working tirelessly to investigate and shut down these fraudulent operations.
How to Avoid Falling for Fake Deals
Rapha has released official guidance for customers to avoid falling victim to these scams. Key recommendations include:
- Check the website URL: Ensure it matches the official Rapha site. Fake sites often use names that are similar but contain subtle differences.
- Verify social media advertisements: If you come across a social media ad promoting discounted Rapha products, cross-check it with Rapha’s official channels.
- Beware of urgency tactics: Fraudulent sites often create a false sense of urgency to push customers into making quick decisions.
“As Rapha expands as a global cycling brand, the rise of counterfeit websites is an unfortunate reality. These fake sites often target potential customers through social media, offering steep discounts and leaving them out of pocket,” the brand said in a statement. “We’re committed to quickly reporting and removing these sites with the help of our IP protection partner, and we’re taking legal action where possible.”
Rapha encourages customers to report any suspicious websites or ads to help the brand investigate potential fraud. The company also clarified that it cannot be held responsible for purchases made through unofficial channels. If customers believe they’ve shared payment information with a fraudulent site, Rapha recommends contacting their bank or card provider immediately.
Protecting the Community
The company emphasized the importance of vigilance in the fight against fraud. “With the help of our community, we can work together to spot and prevent more people from falling victim to these scams,” Rapha’s statement concluded.
Founded in 2004 by Simon Mottram and Luke Scheybeler, Rapha has become a leading name in cycling apparel. Last year, former Team Sky CEO Fran Millar was appointed as the brand’s new CEO, further solidifying its presence in the global market.
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