The seminar focused on how the rapid evolution of the internet and connected services is reshaping criminal activity, as well as the collection of evidence and enforcement practices. Participants examined the role of online platforms and intermediaries, alongside the challenges posed by anonymity, encryption and cross-border online activity.

A total of 43 representatives from courts and prosecution services took part in the programme. Through practical sessions, they explored a range of investigative techniques and tools, including anonymisation practices, the dark web, virtual private networks (VPNs), encrypted messaging applications, geolocation tools and website metadata analysis.

A key component of the seminar was a series of hands-on exercises using open-source intelligence (OSINT) tools. Participants worked on identifying the operators of online marketplaces and gathering information on potential infringers of intellectual property rights (IPRs) on social media. Dedicated workstations ensured secure connections and confidentiality, allowing participants to safely analyse online environments often linked to illicit activities, such as the trade in counterfeit goods and falsified documents.

Strengthening judicial expertise and fostering cooperation across Member States remain key priorities for the EUIPO. In an increasingly digital, global and borderless environment, effective enforcement of IP rights is essential to tackle challenges such as counterfeiting and piracy.

These activities also contribute to the objectives of the EUIPO’s Copyright Knowledge Centre and support its network of specialised judges across the European Union.

Source: From the open web to the dark web: EUIPO trains judges and prosecutors on new technologies - EUIPO