Technology designed to combat fakes in the global supply chain

With the increase of globalization in trading and online shopping, phony products are on the rise in the market. This article introduces a range of technologies that have been implemented in the supply chain to deter counterfeiters. Technology for both product authentication and tracing and tracking products in the supply chain will be discussed, along with the advantages and disadvantages of each solution. Additionally, success stories on combating counterfeits are introduced. Finally, issues related to rising anti-counterfeiting costs, collaborative efforts in fighting fakes, and a multi-pronged plan are explored. (C) 2012 Kelley School of Business, Indiana University. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.