Audio Transcript

Ms. Ballew: As people travel throughout the U.S. and overseas, they might be interested in buying souvenirs, including artwork and items of cultural interest. Some things may or may not be legitimately for sale.

Ms. Magness-Gardiner: “They need to ask themselves, ‘Is this a reputable dealer?’ If they’re in a flea market, they need to ask questions of the seller.”

Ms. Ballew: That’s Bonnie Magness-Gardiner, manager for the Art Theft Program at the FBI. She says you need to be aware of applicable laws.

Ms. Magness-Gardiner: “Who owned this before the seller did and whether it was legitimately transferred to that seller and can be legitimately transferred to yourself.”

Ms. Ballew: And how do you protect your new investment? A good inventory.

Ms. Magness-Gardiner: “The name of the artist, the title of the work of art, its dimensions, where and when you bought it, from whom, and how much you bought it for. Even more important, a good photograph.”

Ms. Ballew: Just take the picture and keep it someplace safe. I’m Denise Ballew of the Bureau and that’s what’s happening at the “FBI, This Week.”