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Embroidery Fraud on the Internet

Friday 13th of April 2007 03:29:57 PM

For many people, internet auction sites are places to get discounts on items, software, and gifts for family and friends. For others, it is a way to sell stolen or pirated merchandise to those who are unsuspecting. When Fern Metz, of Omaha, Nebraska, bought a few embroidery patterns off the internet to make a few gifts for her grandchild, she never though she should be slapped with a law suit. As it turns out, the patterns were stolen property and everyone involved was going to have to pay or be sued for damages.

The Embroidery Software Protection Coalition sent Metz a letter explaining what had happened and the possible consequences she could face. The letter also asked Metz to return the embroidery patterns and pay a US$300.00 fine. Metz was very upset and conflicted about whether the coalition was legitimate. "It really does upset me. I couldn't sleep at night. I'd go through ‘Should I pay it or shouldn't I?’" said Metz. In the end, to avoid a possible lawsuit and having to pay damages that could have exceeded US$30,000, Metz and her husband decided to pay the fine and return the patterns.

“Absolutely, I felt threatened. That's a lot of money to go through the courts to pay out if in fact they're legit. I was scared that I did that and put our little savings in jeopardy," said Mertz’s husband, Hank.

The coalition was created in order to protect the embroidery industry because there has been an increase in pirated software over the years. Carole Faulkner, counsel to the Embroidery Software Protection Coalition said, “They will go after buyers like they will sellers because they have to educate because it's going to destroy the whole industry.”

(c)Datcu Gabriela, www.sxc.hu