Counterfeits

Piracy, in any form, is a serious offense that could cost you a pretty penny during your trip in Italy. According to Italian law, anyone (citizens and tourists alike) caught buying counterfeit goods—DVDs, CDs, sunglasses, or those impossibly discounted "Fendi" and "Gucci" bags—sold by illegal sidewalk vendors is subject to a fine of no less than €1,000. While the police in Rome enforce this law to varying degrees, travelers are advised to purchase products only from stores and licensed retailers that give a receipt, to avoid buying counterfeit goods or committing tax evasion.