2022 Intellectual Property reports young people in the EU continue utilising illegal material, risking cyber safety

Official results of the Intellectual Property (IP) and Youth Scoreboard 2022 Report, conducted by EUIPO, are now available. The report surveyed young people aged 15 to 24 across the EU, with specific data found for Ireland’s young people.

In summary, it was found that more than half (52%) of young people surveyed admitted to buying at least one fake product online within the last year – either knowingly or as the result of an accidental scam – while a third (33%) of those surveyed have accessed online content from illegal sources.

Narrowing it down to those surveyed with intentional actions, 37% purposely bought a fake product and 21% streamed pirated from illegal online sources. The report also looked at Ireland exclusively, finding that 43% of Irish young people have bought a fake product internationally within the last year and 28% have knowingly gained access to illegal content.

The survey results conclude that despite digital risks, young people in Ireland continue to purchase fraudulent products and access pirated online content from illegal sources. The main factors point to price and availability, especially given post-Covid effects on finances. However, peer and social influence are not causes neglected in the findings. Risks in such behaviour include cyber security threats, cyber fraud and environmental impact, stated the report.

The purchase of fake products by young people has significantly increased from survey results in 2019, which then stood at just 14%. Counterfeit consumption of clothing and accessories, footwear, electronic devices and beauty/hygiene products are the most common. It’s important to note that unintentional purchase of fake products was surveyed at 37%, with those surveyed sharing that it’s difficult to distinguish between authentic and counterfeit goods.

Regarding online piracy, access to illegal digital sites has actually decreased by nearly 10% from survey results in 2019. Still, roughly one in five young consumers admitted to knowingly streaming illegal, pirated content within the last twelve months, with the main content being television shows, films and music.

The report advises that young people might think twice about accessing infringed online material should they consider the possible negative impact on the environment (how fraudulent mass-produced clothing is created) as well as high risks to cyber security.

Executive Director of the EUIPO, Christian Archambea, stated in relation to the report, “This new analysis provides a valuable tool to help stakeholders, policy
makers as well as educators and civil society organisations shape awareness-raising
initiatives to support the informed choices of our young citizens and consumers.”

The EUIPO is based in Spain and among one of the most innovative intellectual property offices globally. The Observatory was established in 2009, with a mission to fight the increasing danger of intellectual property infringement in Europe and to protect the rights of online property.

Access the full Intellectual Property (IP) and Youth Scoreboard 2022 Report and relative findings here.