Counterfeit Cisco sold to federal and military air traffic controllers

Houston, Texas based KPRC Local 2 News has a fresh video report on the bust of Syren Technology and its owners for selling counterfeit Cisco to federal and military air traffic controllers.

Two Richmond, Texas brothers are now facing felony indictments, charged with conspiracy and trafficking in counterfeit Cisco goods. Michael Edman, 36, and Robert Edman, 28, are due in court on Jan. 4 to face a federal judge.

The men are charged with importing cartons full of phony stickers with the Cisco Systems logo and attaching the stickers to imitation computer components. They are also accused of importing empty boxes with Cisco logos to package the equipment for shipment to the military and other agencies to make them appear to be the higher priced, legitimate Cisco product.

Their indictment does not mention whether any of the questionable Cisco products failed after being shipped to the various military and other agencies. Other victims, according to the indictment, are federal prisons throughout the nation, a cable TV enterprise and local government agencies on the West Coast.

Court papers said federal agents received much of their information, including specifics on shipments of the phony Cisco merchandise and payment amounts, from the seller of the counterfeit goods in China. That person is listed in court papers as an "un-indicted co-conspirator," and he does not face any charges at this time.

View the entire story and video

"This is not just a Cisco problem, but a widespread problem in the IT industry," said Phil Wright - Director of Worldwide Cisco Brand Protection.

"When products are purchased on the gray market, rather than through Cisco authorized distribution and resale channels, Cisco cannot guarantee the source and quality of those products."

"For those customers that need a less expensive alternative to sourcing new product, consider Cisco Certified Refurbished Equipment, which is available through authorized dealers."

What about partners or customers that suspect that they have purchased counterfeit Cisco equipment?

If you have questions or concerns, contact Cisco Brand Protection by email at: brandprotection@cisco.com

Or contact your local FBI office.

http://www.BradReese.Com