$2M Counterfeit Nintendo Products Sold on Amazon: A Case Study inTrademark Enforcement
Counterfeiting is not a victimless crime. It harms consumers, erodes trust in online marketplaces, and directly impacts legitimate businesses who play by the rules. A recent prosecution out of New York highlights just how serious the consequences can be when counterfeit goods infiltrate digital storefronts.
According to news reports, Isaac Lapidus, 34, was charged with trademark counterfeiting and conspiracy after allegedly selling more than $2 million worth of counterfeit Nintendo products through multiple Amazon storefronts. Authorities say Lapidus operated five seller accounts tied to an Island Park warehouse, including names such as PandaVida Inc., Unibabe, This Too Shall Pass, ABC of Product, and Zuzu Cares 4 U (later renamed ArminStore).
Nintendo reviewed the seized products and found glaring red flags:
Serial number inconsistencies
Product code discrepancies
Incorrect designs and branding
Even inaccurate Japanese characters
A warehouse search uncovered boxes of fake Nintendo Switch docking stations, adapters, and Pokémon Go accessories. Lapidus was arrested and now faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
Our Firm’s Direct Experience
At ThornCrest, we’ve seen firsthand how counterfeiters like this operate — and the damage they cause. In fact, we represent a client who was directly targeted by this very reseller under the storefront names This Too Shall Pass, PandaVida Inc., and Unibabe.
Our client’s legitimate business was forced to compete against counterfeit listings that siphoned away revenue, damaged brand reputation, and left confused customers questioning authenticity. It’s a textbook example of why businesses must stay vigilant and act quickly when counterfeit activity surfaces.
Key Takeaways for Businesses and Sellers
This case underscores important lessons:
Amazon and Law Enforcement Collaboration – Amazon’s Counterfeit Crimes Unit actively partners with prosecutors and rights holders. Multiple storefronts won’t shield bad actors from liability.
Criminal Consequences – Counterfeiting can bring felony charges, not just civil lawsuits. The exposure is real and severe.
Brand Protection Requires Action – Nintendo’s IP Enforcement Division played a crucial role by identifying fakes and supporting the prosecution. Rights holders must actively monitor and enforce their trademarks.
Protecting Legitimate Sellers – Counterfeiters hurt honest sellers by undercutting them with fake goods. Due diligence in sourcing and strong IP protections are essential.
Lessons for California Businesses
While this case is unfolding in New York, California businesses are just as vulnerable. Steps every company should consider:
Vet Your Supply Chain: Don’t assume goods from third parties are authentic. Demand documentation and build relationships with trusted distributors.
Leverage Marketplace Protections with Expert Support: Programs like Amazon’s Brand Registry are useful, but they work best when combined with professional oversight. At ThornCrest, we bring together technology and legal expertise to actively monitor online marketplaces, identify counterfeit threats, and take swift, defensible action.
Engage Counsel Quickly: If your business is accused of counterfeiting — or is harmed by counterfeit competition — early legal intervention can prevent escalation and protect both your bottom line and your reputation.
Final Thoughts
The Lapidus prosecution is a stark reminder: counterfeit goods don’t just trigger civil disputes — they can land sellers in criminal court. For legitimate businesses, early enforcement is critical to safeguard revenue, brand equity, and consumer trust.
The ThornCrest Advantage lies in the combination of cutting-edge technology and deep legal knowledge. Our in-house legal team works alongside our monitoring platform to ensure every action — whether a takedown notice, marketplace removal, or MAP compliance strategy — is both defensible and strategic.
We don’t just automate enforcement; we help you build a long-term brand protection framework that grows with your business. Whether you’re an online seller seeking to protect your listings, or a company harmed by counterfeit competition, proactive, tech-driven legal action makes all the difference.
