The World Customs Organization (WCO) has launched a powerful new weapon in the global fight against counterfeit goods: an upgraded IPM (Interface Public Members) system that connects customs officials worldwide with real-time authentication technology.
The IPM Connected Network: A Game-Changer for Anti-Counterfeiting Efforts
This enhanced digital platform serves as a centralized hub where brand owners can directly share intelligence with frontline customs officers. The system now features two critical technological advancements:
- Mobile Verification: Customs officials can now use handheld devices to scan barcodes or other tracking markers, triggering immediate authentication through the IPM system.
- Expanded Integration: The new version seamlessly connects with various authentication and tracking solution providers, significantly broadening its verification capabilities.
Seven Security Leaders Join the Fight
The WCO has announced partnerships with seven leading security solution providers specializing in different industries:
- Advanced Track & Trace
- Authenticateit
- CertiEye
- Certilogo
- Holoptica
- PharmaSecure
- Systech International
These companies bring specialized expertise in protecting pharmaceuticals, automotive parts, food and beverages, healthcare products, textiles, and luxury goods through advanced smartphone-readable verification technologies.
Triple Advantage for Global Trade
The IPM Connected network delivers significant benefits to both customs agencies and brand owners:
- Enhanced Security: Real-time verification prevents counterfeit products from entering markets, protecting consumer health and safety.
- Faster Processing: Mobile authentication dramatically reduces customs clearance times while maintaining rigorous inspection standards.
- Economic Protection: The system helps prevent billions in losses from counterfeit trade while reducing brand protection costs.
Building a Global Anti-Counterfeiting Ecosystem
The WCO emphasizes that IPM Connected represents more than just a technological solution - it's an open platform designed to foster international cooperation. The organization continues to invite additional authentication providers and data sources to join the network.
Strategic Impact Beyond Border Security
Industry analysts highlight four key benefits of this initiative:
- Strengthening global trade security through enhanced cross-border monitoring
- Providing brand owners with powerful new intellectual property protection tools
- Facilitating unprecedented international cooperation against transnational crime
- Driving innovation in anti-counterfeiting technologies through private-sector partnerships
The participating companies each contribute specialized capabilities, from holographic security features to pharmaceutical tracking systems and cloud-based authentication platforms.