COUNTERFEIT goods are being sold through social networking sites.

Trading standards officers in Hartlepool today issued a warning to those selling counterfeit items online that they could have the goods seized and potentially face the loss of their homes and possessions if caught.

Counterfeiting is deemed a “lifestyle offence”, meaning that the financial assets of perpetrators can be investigated and properties and possessions confiscated to compensate for money gained through the activity.

Neil Harrison, Hartlepool Council’s senior trading standards officer, said: “The scale of the problem has resulted in our officers focusing more on social networking sites.

"People suspected to be engaging in such activity will be approached. Those found to be doing so will have their goods seized and could face prosecution.

"Under the Proceeds of Crimes Act , their homes and possessions could even be at risk.”

Anyone with information about counterfeit goods is asked to contact trading standards officers on 01429-523362.