MLB, law enforcement team to prevent counterfeits

Major League Baseball and several law enforcement groups are teaming up to protect fans from purchasing counterfeit tickets and merchandise during MLB All-Star Week in Minnesota.

MLB has joined with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to crack down on the production and sale of counterfeit merchandise, and undercover investigators will be searching for problematic merchandise throughout the Twin Cities during MLB All-Star Week.

Law enforcement officials will aggressively enforce local ordinances, permit requirements and state and federal counterfeit laws during All-Star Week in order to protect businesses and consumers from fraud.

Major League Baseball has issued the following tips to help fans avoid purchasing bootleg material:

• Look for the hologram sticker or holographic hangtag with raised red baseball stitching design.
• Look for a sewn-in or screenprinted label or notice identifying a licensee that has been authorized by Major League Baseball Properties to produce "official" merchandise.
• Look for a sewn-in or screenprinted label or notice identifying a licensee that has been authorized by Major League Baseball Properties to produce "official" merchandise.
• Shop at MLB-authorized retail locations, such as the Official Team Store and MLB.com, the official web site of MLB - rather than buying items from itinerant street vendors, flea markets, or other questionable sources.
• Beware of ripped tags or irregular markings on apparel.

If consumers have questions about the authenticity of merchandise, they can feel free to call the CAPS toll free hot line (800) TEL-CAPS (835-2277).