Field notes from investigative teams.

Reality Check: How Real Investigators Really Use (and Don’t Use) AI Today

A candid Q&A with a police chief and detective on what AI actually helps with in frontline investigations—and what still …

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The Human Factor: Why Investigators Still Matter in the AI Era

AI accelerates investigative work, but it can’t replace judgment, context, and accountability. This chapter outlines the …

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Closing the Small-Parcel Loophole: AI at the Border

How AI helps customs detect counterfeits hidden in low-value parcel flows—and how brands can provide machine-readable …

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Homicide & Violent Crime: The Evidence Problem Became a Data Problem

Modern homicide cases produce overwhelming digital evidence. This chapter explains how AI helps triage video, sensor …

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Authenticity Under Attack: When Fakes Feel Real

As deepfake ads, cloned influencer endorsements, and AI-generated brand voice replicas spread across social platforms, …

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The New Counterfeit Supply Chain: Mapping Micro-Sellers with AI

Counterfeit activity has shifted from a few hubs to swarms of micro-sellers across marketplaces and social platforms. …

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Financial & Money Crimes: The Paper Trail Became a Blockchain

This third chapter of the Criminal Minds, Rewired series explores how the paper trail of financial crime has turned into …

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Human Trafficking & Sex Trade: The Visibility Problem Turned Algorithmic

This chapter explores how traffickers use digital platforms, algorithms, and hidden online infrastructures to mask …

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Drug Trafficking: The Supply Chain Problem Got Automated

In this second part of the Criminal Minds, Rewired series, we explore how AI is transforming drug trafficking …

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Authenticity Under Attack: AI Laundering and the New Arms Race Against Deepfake Ads

Deepfake ads and AI-generated brand voice replicas are industrializing synthetic credibility. Learn how AI laundering …

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Organized Crime: Coordination Has Gone Fully Digital

How AI, link analysis, and unified data hubs are helping investigators close the coordination gap as organized retail …

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Holiday Counterfeits 2025: The End of Set-and-Forget Brand Protection

Many investigative teams are stuck using tools that were never designed for the complexity of their work—leading to …

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AI and Dupe Culture: How to Fight Brand Confusion Online

Each year, the Office of the United States Trade Representative publishes a report known as the Notorious Markets List — …

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Why Counterfeiters Move Faster Than Compliance

COVID-era shifts and automation created a speed gap that bad actors exploit. This guide shows how agile data, …

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Why the U.S. Notorious Markets List Tells Only Half the Story

Each year, the Office of the United States Trade Representative publishes a report known as the Notorious Markets List — …

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Closing the Gap Between Detection and Response

Organized retail crime crews exploit the lag between detection and response. This article explains how data fusion …

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Cyber-Enabled Physical Attacks: From Badge Cloning to Alarm Hijacking

Organized retail crime (ORC) is structured and repeatable, run like a business with defined roles and playbooks.

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How Online Fraud Become Physical Theft

BOPIS has reshaped retail—and opened a backdoor for organized retail crime. This article explains how online fraud …

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Thinking Like the Criminal: How LP Teams Outsmart Organized Retail Crime

Organized retail crime (ORC) is structured and repeatable, run like a business with defined roles and playbooks.

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Retail Tech Fatigue: When More Dollar Spend Don’t Mean More Security

Retailers are spending billions on ALPR, RFID, facial recognition, and smart cameras, yet organized retail crime still …

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The Five Zone Playbook: Stopping a 60-Second Smash-and-Grab

A concise playbook describing how coordinated smash-and-grab thefts unfold across five zones and practical …

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Why Depth in Analytics is the Missing Piece in Police Tech

Surface dashboards count crimes but miss connections. Uniting horizontal breadth and vertical depth reveals patterns, …

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Is Police Tech Actually Reducing Crime or Just Gathering Data?

A practical guide examining where police technology prevents crime, where it fails, and the standards needed to ensure …

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Why Shoplifting Is Rising Despite Tech Advances: Causes & Strategic Solutions

Retail theft is up 93% since 2019. This guide explains why shoplifting is rising despite AI and smart cameras—and …

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Responsible AI by Design: Why Investigators Must Stay in the Loop

AI accelerates investigations and brand protection—but without human oversight, auditability, and transparency, it can …

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Winning the Next Generation: How to Build Brand Value Millennials and Gen Z Love

Explore strategies to engage Millennials and Gen Z consumers who prioritize authenticity, value, and identity, while …

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Five Principles to Stop AI From Going Rogue

A guide to responsible AI in investigations, outlining key risks, regulatory gaps, and five core principles to ensure …

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Mistaking “Hike” for “Nike”: Is AI Flooding Your Team with False Positives?

AI was supposed to help brand protection teams detect infringement faster. Instead, many are overwhelmed by false …

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How Bold Moves Break Counterfeiters’ Entrepreneurial Spirit

Counterfeiters now act more like entrepreneurs than criminals. This article reveals how brands are countering them …

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Key Breakthroughs and Laggers in Law Enforcement Technology

This article explores the evolving role of technology in law enforcement, highlighting major breakthroughs like …

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How Synthetic Credibility Is Outsmarting Traditional Defenses

AI-generated fraud has evolved beyond traditional defenses, using deepfakes, fake reviews, and synthetic content to …

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Tired of Patchwork Systems Slowing You Down?

Many investigative teams are stuck using tools that were never designed for the complexity of their work—leading to …

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Transforming SOCMINT into Actionable Investigations

Learn how Social Media Intelligence (SOCMINT) is evolving into a critical tool for law enforcement and investigators. …

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Is your case management system holding you back?

Many investigative teams are stuck using tools that were never designed for the complexity of their work—leading to …

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Uncovering Digital Trails: Enhancing Police Investigations with Geolocation Metadata

Explore how geolocation metadata is transforming modern police investigations. From mapping criminal networks to …

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From Insight to Action: How AI is Transforming IP Analytics and Trademark Enforcement

This article explores how artificial intelligence is transforming IP analytics and trademark enforcement by enabling …

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Why Law Enforcement Needs an Inclusive Investigation Tech Stack

How modern law enforcement agencies can move beyond manual tools and outdated link analysis to AI-powered collaboration …

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5 Key Tech Trends Powering Modern Law Enforcement

In this article, explores key technologies transforming law enforcement, including AI investigations, real-time …

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Who Owns AI-Generated Content? Legal Risks and Copyright Uncertainty Explained

In this article, we’ll explore the legal challenges surrounding AI-generated content, and how tools like Hubstream help …

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How Major Brands Fight IP Battles And What You Can Learn from Them

In this article, we’ll show you how real-life cases reveal patterns, strategies, and pitfalls. You’ll also learn why, …

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Smarter Policing Through Unified Data: Real-World Lessons from U.S. Agencies

In this article, we’ll explore how agencies across the U.S. are unifying information, reducing risk, and improving …

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How ORC Rings Use Social Media to Orchestrate Heists

From encrypted group chats to TikTok live streams, today's organized retail crime (ORC) rings are running smarter, …

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When Prices Rise, So Do Fakes: How Inflation Creates Openings for Counterfeiters

In this article, we’ll show you why inflation has become a silent brand protection crisis and what your team can do now …

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How to Expedite Your Investigations by Leveraging Social Media Data

In this article, we’ll explore how to ethically collect, analyze, and apply this data, and how tools like Hubstream help …

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The Counterfeit Packaging Crisis No One’s Talking About

In this article, we'll get straight to the point: revealing hidden dangers, presenting practical solutions, and showing …

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Empowering Investigations: AI’s Impact on Law Enforcement

In this article, we’ll explore how AI is being used to solve crimes, the ethical challenges that arise in the process, …

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Empowering Retailers to Detect and Prevent Return fraud​ Early

Return fraud isn’t just a nuisance. We're talking about a $22.8 billion hemorrhage for U.S. retailers. And while …

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From Click to Counter: How Ecommerce Fraud Fuels Major Crimes And How to Fight Back

In this article, we’ll look at how e-commerce data—like customer behavior, IP addresses, and payment patterns—can help …

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Adapting Data Analytics Techniques to Combat Organized Retail Crime

In this article, we show how Loss Prevention (LP) teams can help teams act with more speed, precision and impact, …

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How Technology Is Reshaping the Battle Against Counterfeits

Technology — from social networks to generative AI and 3D printing — has supercharged counterfeiters. Brands that stay …

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Same Platforms, New Twists: How Modern Counterfeiters Are Using Technology to Sell fakes

We explore how modern counterfeiters are acting and how your team can respond with intelligence, agility and reliable …

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When will AI replace investigators?

Reading my news feed this season, it seems like Artificial Intelligence (AI) is hitting a level of hype that may be …

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Data on Trial: A Police Chief’s Perspective on the Challenges of Modern Drug Investigations in Brazil

In this interview, we speak with a senior Police Chief (Delegado de Polícia) from Brazil’s Civil Police, who has …

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Global Counterfeits Raids: Key Takeaways for Brands, Investigators and Enforcement Teams

In this article, we explore how major counterfeit operations are changing and what brands, authorities and investigators …

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Lessons from Major Trademark Infringement Cases

In this article, we've gathered a few relevant trademark and copyright infringement cases, the trends shaping the future …

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How to Protect Your Brand in Uncertain Times

As markets shift and consumer behavior evolves, protecting your brand has never been more critical. From fluctuating …

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From Clues to Cues: Turning Scattered Data into Actionable Intelligence

Are you ready to take your crime investigation to the next level? Join us for an exclusive webinar exploring …

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Staying Ahead in 2025: Trends, Threats, and Tools for Brand Protection

Counterfeiting is a $4.2 trillion global issue impacting industries from consumer goods to pharmaceuticals.

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Interview with a Brazilian Detective: Uncovering the Challenges of Drug Investigations

In a recent interview, a Brazilian detective shared insights into the complex challenges faced during drug-related …

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Connecting the Dots: Overcoming Data Barriers in Drug and Narcotics Investigations

In this article, we will discuss the main challenges in managing information about drug investigations and some …

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Establishing A Virtual Intelligence Operations Center to Combat ORC

While tools like CCTV, RFID tags, and body cameras have been widely adopted, they often work in isolation. To …

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How Bad Actors Exploit Chatbots for Counterfeiting

In this article, we'll explore the role of AI chatbots in scams and share practical tips, and solutions to help you keep …

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A Practical Guide to Combat Theme-Based Counterfeits

While seasonal events like Christmas and Black Friday create excitement, they also provide fertile ground for …

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The Rise of Organized Retail Crime (ORC) and Multi-Channel Theft

The holiday season is a great time for a well-deserved break. But this is also the best time of year for scammers, …

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The Dark Side of Amazon Haul: Risks and Solutions for Overwhelmed Brands

The holiday season is a great time for a well-deserved break. But this is also the best time of year for scammers, …

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Old Tricks, New Currency: How Classic Scams Have Evolved with Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency scams may seem like a new phenomenon, but the deceptive tactics behind them are age-old. Fraudsters use …

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Preserving Timeless Elegance with Tech: How Luxury Brands are Evolving Beyond Tradition

Counterfeiting poses a significant challenge to the global luxury goods industry, threatening brand equity, consumer …

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Holiday Shopping Scam Master Series - Part IV

The holiday season is a great time for a well-deserved break. But this is also the best time of year for scammers, …

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Holiday Shopping Scam Master Series - Part III

Welcome to the Holiday Shopping Scam Master Series! In this series, we’ll explore common holiday scams, reveal scammers' …

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Holiday Shopping Scam Master Series - Part II

Welcome to the Holiday Shopping Scam Master Series! In this series, we’ll explore common holiday scams, reveal scammers' …

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Holiday Shopping Scam Master Series - Part I

Welcome to the Holiday Shopping Scam Master Series! In this series, we’ll explore common holiday scams, reveal scammers' …

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Intro to AI for IP and Brand Protection Teams

IP and Brand Protection teams often hear that AI is either the solution to every problem in the universe, or the cause …

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Exploring Hubstream: Revolutionizing Crime Analysis

During this session, we will explore how Hubstream integrates data management, link analysis, workflow optimization, and …

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The Power of Link Analysis with Documents

Link analysis techniques have been a cornerstone of criminal investigations and intelligence gathering to identify and …

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Integrating Online & Offline Data to Defeat Counterfeiters

Join us for an exclusive webinar with Corsearch, a leading provider of Trademark and Brand Protection solutions. As an …

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Combating Organized Retail Crime: Challenges and Solutions

This article will examine the sophisticated techniques used by criminals and provide practical solutions to combat this …

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Emerging Trends in Online Ad Fraud

This article discusses the growing risks of online ad fraud, exposing the sophisticated tactics used by bad actors.

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Human + AI is your Best Bet to Win the Battle of Modern Crime Investigations

This article will explore the limitations of traditional investigative methods, the transformative impact of AI on …

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Temu: The New King of Affordable Knockoffs - Impacts on Consumers and Brands

This article examines Temu's controversial expansion, focusing on the deceptive techniques employed by bad actors on the …

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Comprehensive Guide to Removing Counterfeits on TikTok: Practical Steps for Brand Protection

This article explore a comprehensive guide to remove infringements or counterfeits on TikTok, providing detailed …

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Navigating Brand Infringement on TikTok’s Counterfeit Playground

This article shares the challenges of counterfeits on TikTok and uncovers the tactics used by bad actors with real-world …

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The Fight Against Counterfeits on Facebook’s E-commerce Store

This article delves into the intricacies of IP enforcement in Facebook storefronts, examining the opportunities and …

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Boosting Data Match Rates in Unstructured Sets Through Advanced Link Analysis

When it comes to link analysis, the challenge is no longer just about connecting the dots—it's about finding the dots in …

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The Rising Menace of Counterfeit Medicine

In early 2024, authorities in the United States uncovered a sprawling counterfeit drug operationthat sent shockwaves …

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Defending the Unseen in IP: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Non-Traditional Trademarks

In this blog, we will explore actionable solutions below to address the challenges discussed in our part 1, from legal, …

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Understanding the Rise of Non-Traditional Marks in Modern Branding

The future of trademarks isn’t just about what you see, but what you hear, smell, and feel.Non-traditional trademarks …

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AI’s Transformative Power in Intellectual Property (IP) and Brand Protection

The term "artificial intelligence" (AI) seems to be everywhere around us these days.  From self-driving cars to …

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Navigating IP Challenges in the Era of AI-Generated Films

In the 21st century, blockbuster movies are no longer just a product of human minds, but also of artificial intelligence …

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Livestream shopping

In the rapidly evolving digital marketplace, livestream shopping has emerged as a revolutionary retail phenomenon. It …

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“Houston, we have a problem with AI.” –The Chaos triggered by AI-driven infringements in cyberspace

In the 1995 film ‘Apollo 13,’ the iconic actor Tom Hanks delivered the renowned line, “Houston, we have a problem,” …

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How Infringers Use Multichannel Approaches to Maximize the Impact of their Scams

As technology advances, AI infringers are increasingly adopting a multi-channel approach to carry out deceptive …

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Impactful Strategies to Combat AI-Triggered Infringements

In a world where AI-triggered infringements pose an ever-growing threat to brands and consumers alike, mastering …

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How Uber Protects Its Brand Globally

As an IP or Brand Protection professional dealing with numerous infringers and counterfeiters, one question that …

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​15 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for AI-Powered Investigative Case Management

AI-powered case management involves the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to streamline and …

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Unveiling Copycat Tactics and Distinguishing Design Doppelgangers

Design infringement refers to the unauthorized use or imitation of a protected design, which encompasses the appearance, …

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Combating Superfakes:Safeguarding brands from counterfeit goods on social media platforms

The prevalence of superfakes and the rampant sale of counterfeit goods on social media platforms have created …

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Beyond takedowns:Safeguarding your brands on marketplaces

Combatting intellectual property infringements on online marketplaces presents a significant challenge. The diverse …

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Purchase Proposal for an Investigative Case Management System

In today's fast-paced business environment, where efficiency, accuracy, and compliance are paramount, the need for an …

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From Street to Screen:The Interplay of Online and Offline Investigations Against Counterfeits

The combination of computers, smartphones, and the internet has revolutionized every aspect of our lives, including our …

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Combating counterfeit drugs in the digital world:Challenges and opportunities

Counterfeit medications pose a global health concern. These imitations not only lack efficacy but may also contain …

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How to Combat Infringements Generated by AI

During the pandemic, the global landscape has undergone a significant shift and became a fertile ground for illicit …

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Practical Use Cases for AI in Brand Protection

When it comes to managing cases, investigators can take advantages of AI to save time and focus on what really matters.

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How to develop a data-driven brand protection strategy?

Imagine that if you were Kim, an IP and brand protection specialist at a renowned clothing brand. Kim has faced an …

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Unmasking the Shadows: Neutralizing Gray Market Trades

In the bustling markets of global commerce, there exists a shadowy realm that operates outside the usual channels of …

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Safeguarding Intellectual Property in the Digital Age

In this interconnected world, safeguarding your brand online has become increasingly important. The prevalence of …

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What Is the Role of Data In Brand Protection?

Brand protection is a crucial aspect of any business. By utilizing data, companies can gain advantages to protect their …

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Why Traditional Case Management Software Isn’t Enough?

The trend among investigative teams to switch from conventional case management software to more advanced investigative …

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Why Traditional Case Management Software Fails You

When it comes to managing cases, investigators need help to focus their precious time and efforts on what really …

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CyberTip ONE

Cybertip management, Griffeye, Hubstream, NCMEC CyberTips, A complete Solution to manage critical NCMEC Cybertips at …

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Project VIC

Hubstream is proud to be a part of Project Vic. A non-profit whose technologies are used by thousands of law enforcement …

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Hubstream ONE is now available for investigative teams

Hubstream ONE has evolved to become an end-to-end platform for all investigations. Modern investigative teams need to …

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Surviving the data deluge

the volume of information they need to manage to stay on top of IP and brand protection issues is exploding.

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Canada selects FTI Consulting and Hubstream on Microsoft Azure for national cybercrime solution

Hubstream and FTI partner to build Canada's National Cybercrime Solution on the Microsoft Azure cloud platform.

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Hubstream Achieves SOC 2 Certification for its SaaS Investigative Platform

Hubstream is a SOC 2 Type 2 compliant case management system for brand protection, cybercrime, spam, phishing, …

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Lessons from the world’s leading investigative teams

Allowing investigators to work better together to defeat crime has been the North Star of our approach since our …

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Online Brand Protection Guide Download

Download our free Online Brand Protection Guide. Learn IP safeguarding strategies against digital threats. Empower your …

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