During the Russia exhibition and forum titled Day Without Counterfeits, experts highlighted a striking statistic: the average lifespan of a counterfeit product in 2023 was about four days. This emphasis on rapid turnover underscores the scale of the counterfeit trade and the persistent challenge it poses to consumers and legitimate businesses alike. The discussion framed a pressing question for all attendees: how can society build resilience against counterfeit goods by improving information literacy and fact-checking habits at the moment of purchase and beyond? (Source: Russia exhibition forum on counterfeits)

One clear takeaway centered on education. The speakers argued that fostering critical information skills and habitual fact verification is essential for healthier information consumption. A sociological perspective was cited, showing that a majority of respondents—roughly 65 percent—believe they can separate unreliable information from facts. The implication is not that people lack judgment, but that systematic, widespread training can turn skepticism into a reliable daily practice. This approach aims to embed rigorous verification into ordinary behavior so that consumers question claims before acting on them. (Source: social research presented at the forum)

Another point raised concerned personal judgment in the digital age. A well-known media personality emphasized that relying on empirical experience online remains crucial. The suggestion was not to distrust all digital content but to balance instinct with cautious verification, especially when encountering new information, recommendations, or product claims. The message resonated with audiences who routinely navigate a flood of online signals and must decide which sources merit trust. (Source: remarks by a digital media advocate)

Industry and academia also weighed in on the role of education in fraud prevention. University leaders described how higher education institutions contribute to the fight against fraud by training professionals who understand the techniques used by counterfeiters and who can implement rigorous verification procedures in real-world settings. This educational emphasis spans curricula, research initiatives, and practical collaborations with industry partners to ensure graduates carry a strong sense of integrity and an ability to scrutinize information under pressure. (Source: university statements at the event)

For the session’s facilitation, a governance and collaboration expert moderated the dialogue, guiding participants through complex topics with clarity and focus. The moderator highlighted the value of cross-disciplinary cooperation—between technology, sociology, and business—to build a robust defense against misinformation and counterfeit practices. The discussion illustrated how coordinated efforts across sectors can accelerate the adoption of better verification routines and stronger consumer protection measures. (Source: event moderator’s overview)

In the spirit of Day Without Counterfeits, an intellectual game was staged to provoke thought and engagement. The activity featured teams from higher education institutions who tackled scenarios involving counterfeit claims, digital trust, and ethical decision-making. The winning team emerged from Moscow State Pedagogical and Psychological University, recognized for its insightful analysis and practical recommendations. The exercise demonstrated that experiential learning and teamwork can sharpen critical thinking and cultivate a culture of skepticism that is constructive and actionable. (Source: event competition highlights)