I got interviewed by the Providence, RI TV station WPRI this week about counterfeiting Super Bowl merch. It does take the money out of the pockets of legitimate businesses involved, as well as the players and owners (not sure they need more money but…)

http://wpri.com/2017/01/27/how-to-spot-counterfeit-sports-gear/

What I did not get into during the interview is the fact that the NFL only gives a few licenses for very specific types of suppliers. It both makes it difficult for smaller businesses to get legitimate merch to sell and also in some ways puts a cramp on production. Both of these dynamics lead to bootlegging as the demand will be met somehow, often by not the nicest individuals.

If you want the real thing, look for a hologram sticker.

…and Go Pats!