UPDATES: A complex investment fraud that persuaded victims to sink millions into fine wine has ended with the conviction of three fraudsters following a lengthy Trading Standards investigation. The case illustrates the persistence required to tackle sophisticated scams targeting vulnerable consumers.

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UPDATES: A major multi-agency operation in Northumberland has taken thousands of illicit cigarettes and tobacco products off the streets, dealing a significant blow to suspected organised crime networks. Acting on intelligence, Trading Standards and police uncovered large-scale illegal supplies and warned that tackling illicit tobacco is vital to protecting public health and local communities ...

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UPDATES: A Barrow shop owner has been prosecuted after Trading Standards uncovered counterfeit cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco during a test purchase operation. Following the seizure of hundreds of illegal tobacco products, the seller was convicted in court - sending a clear warning that illicit tobacco sales harm communities and will not be tolerated ...

UPDATES: A Barrow shop owner has been prosecuted after counterfeit cigarettes and illicit tobacco were uncovered during a Trading Standards investigation. The case reinforces the message that illegal tobacco sales continue to undermine legitimate retailers while supporting wider criminal activity.

UPDATES: A substantial seizure of illicit tobacco in Northumberland has disrupted a suspected organised crime network following intelligence-led action by Trading Standards and police. The operation highlights the continuing importance of partnership working and public intelligence in tackling illegal supply chains.

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UPDATES: The Intellectual Property Office has unveiled a new online Intelligence Gateway designed to streamline how suspected IP crime is reported and investigated. Replacing the old PIPCU referral form, the platform brings enforcement bodies, rights holders and police closer together - promising smarter prioritisation, stronger coordination, and a more effective national response to protecting IP rights ...

UPDATES: A new reporting platform from the Intellectual Property Office gives Trading Standards and rights holders a streamlined way to submit intelligence on suspected IP crime. The system is intended to strengthen national coordination and improve the disruption of counterfeit and intellectual property offences.

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UPDATES: London Trading Standards is warning renters about a growing property scam targeting those seeking bargain rents. Fraudsters are pressuring would-be tenants to pay deposits or rent upfront for properties that don’t exist, using fake documents and disappearing agents. With losses running into thousands, LTS urges renters to stay vigilant as enforcement action and new tenant protections gather pace ...

UPDATES: Fraudsters are exploiting London's competitive rental market with convincing fake property listings and bogus tenancy paperwork. Trading Standards is urging prospective tenants to stay alert as reports of the scam continue to mount.

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UPDATES: Lancashire Trading Standards has taken action against food businesses caught mis-selling kebabs after tests revealed undeclared meats including beef and chicken. Multiple prosecutions highlight a growing national issue around inaccurate labelling, with repeat offenders fined for breaching food safety laws and misleading consumers about what they were really eating ...