Audio Transcript

Mollie Halpern: Infant formula. Over-the-counter medications. Teeth whitener strips.

These are just some of the products the FBI says criminal enterprises steal, repackage, and resell to less-than-reputable retailers.

The items are often expired, contaminated, and cut with other products, creating health implications for consumers.

Supervisory Special Agent Scott Campbell says the FBI works with the private sector and local and state law enforcement agencies to mitigate this crime.

Scott Campbell: Disrupt and dismantle is what we want to do to the organized crime entities.

Halpern: Organized retail crime takes place across the country—particularly hot spots like Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City.

Campbell recommends using caution when buying products through online classified advertisements and auction websites. Instead...

Campbell: Consumers should definitely make their purchases at legitimate brick and mortar stores as well as reputable websites.

Halpern: Organized retail crime causes billions of dollars of losses a year. Report the crime to local police or tips.fbi.gov. With FBI, This Week, I’m Mollie Halpern of the Bureau.