Which type of fraud typically involves counterfeit goods?

Counterfeit goods primarily affect consumers, making the category of crimes against customers the correct choice. This type of fraud usually involves the unauthorized replication of products to deceive buyers into believing they are purchasing legitimate items. Counterfeiting can encompass a wide range of products, from luxury goods to pharmaceuticals, causing financial harm to customers who may not receive the quality or safety they expect.

When dealing with these counterfeit goods, customers are misled about the product’s authenticity and value, which is a clear violation of consumer rights and protection laws. This kind of fraud not only impacts the individuals involved but can also harm businesses by diluting brand reputation and eroding trust in the marketplace.

In contrast, the other categories focus on different aspects of fraud. Crimes against investors often deal with misleading information related to securities and financial statements. Employee fraud against employers includes activities like embezzlement or payroll fraud, which occur within the confines of an organization and affect the employer directly. E-crime typically involves digital fraud but does not necessarily target counterfeit goods in the same way as customer-focused crimes do.