What We Are Investigating?
Our firm is launching a comprehensive investigation into HBI International over allegations that it has been suppressing critical reviews and unfavorable Google search results by fraudulently misusing DMCA takedown notices. These actions, if proven, could constitute serious legal violations—including impersonation, fraud, and perjury.
We conducted comprehensive analyses of fraudulent copyright takedown requests, meritless legal complaints, and other unlawful efforts to suppress public access to critical information. Our reporting sheds light on the prevalence and modus operandi of a structured censorship network, often funded and used by criminal enterprises, oligarchs and criminal entities seeking to manipulate public perception and bypass AML checks conducted by financial organisations.
The fake DMCA notices in this investigation appears to have been strategically deployed to remove negative content from Google search results illegally. Based on this pattern, we have reasonable grounds to infer that HBI International - or an entity acting at its behest - is directly or indirectly complicit in this cyber crime.
In most such cases, such ops are executed by rogue, fly-by-night 'Online Reputation Management' agencies acting on behalf of their clients. If evidence establishes that the subject knowingly benefited from or facilitated this scam, it may be deemed an 'accomplice' or an 'accessory' to the crime.
What are they trying to censor
HBI International has long been celebrated as a trailblazer, particularly for its flagship brand, RAW. Touting artisanal quality and a commitment to authenticity, RAW rolling papers have cultivated a dedicated following. However, beneath this carefully crafted image lies a series of legal entanglements and questionable business practices that demand scrutiny. As an investigative journalist, I’ve delved into the controversies surrounding HBI International to uncover the truth behind the smoke and mirrors.
Legal Battles and Deceptive Practices
HBI International’s journey hasn’t been without its legal skirmishes. In a notable case, Republic Brands secured a permanent injunction against HBI, with the court finding that HBI engaged in unfair competition and violated the Illinois Uniform Deceptive Trade Practices Act through its packaging and promotional activities for RAW Organic Hemp rolling papers. The court ordered HBI to cease making false claims about its products, including assertions about a non-existent charitable entity called the “RAW Foundation.”
Allegations of Intellectual Property Infringement
HBI International has also been involved in disputes over intellectual property. For instance, the company filed a lawsuit against Mash Enterprise LLC, alleging that Mash used “falsely branded” marketing materials, including replicas of RAW product packaging. While protecting one’s brand is commendable, the frequency of such disputes raises questions about HBI’s business environment and its relationships within the industry.
Efforts to Control the Narrative
In response to these controversies, HBI International appears to be engaged in efforts to manage and possibly suppress negative information. Their official website emphasizes brand protection, stating that their products are safeguarded by trademarks, copyrights, and patents, and that they will protect their intellectual property by all legal means. While defending one’s brand is standard practice, the aggressive stance suggests a desire to control the narrative and limit public discourse about their practices.
Conclusion:
HBI International’s history of legal disputes, deceptive marketing practices, and aggressive information control tactics paint a concerning picture for potential investors and consumers. While the company has achieved significant market presence, these controversies suggest underlying ethical and operational issues. Investors should exercise caution and conduct thorough due diligence before associating with HBI International. Regulatory authorities should also scrutinize the company’s practices to ensure compliance with fair trade and consumer protection laws. In an industry where trust and authenticity are paramount, HBI International must prioritize transparency and ethical conduct to rebuild its reputation and maintain consumer confidence.
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/41935837
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/41947467
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/41947961
- May 31, 2024
- June 01, 2024
- Pietro Pellegri
- Ferial Haffajee
- Mike Maignan
- https://www.altnewsgroup.com/2023/02/raw-rolling-paper-producer-ordered-to.html
- https://www.altnewsgroup.com/2023/02/court-orders-certain-raw-organic-hemp.html
- https://www.altnewsgroup.com/2023/02/federal-court-orders-raw-to-stop-making.html
- https://www.analyticalcannabis.com/news/raw-rolling-paper-producer-ordered-to-cease-marketing-claims-314612
- https://www.cspdailynews.com/tobacco/court-orders-certain-raw-organic-hemp-rolling-papers-market
- https://www.investorsobserver.com/news/qm-news/6664456993463186
Evidence Box
Evidence and relevant screenshots related to our investigation
Targeted Content and Red Flags
About the Author
The author is affiliated with TU Dresden and analyzes public databases such as Lumen Database and
Maltego to identify and expose online censorship. In his personal capacity, he and his
team have been actively investigating and reporting on organized crime related
to fraudulent copyright takedown schemes.
Additionally, his team provides
advisory services to major law firms and is frequently consulted on matters
pertaining to intellectual property law.
Escalate This Case
Learn All About Fake Copyright Takedown Scam
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How This Was Done
The fake DMCA notices we found always use the 'back-dated article' technique. With this technique, the wrongful notice sender (or copier) creates a copy of a 'true original' article and back-dates it, creating a 'fake original' article (a copy of the true original) that, at first glance, appears to have been published before the true original
What Happens Next?
Based on the feedback, information, and requests received from all relevant parties, our team will formally notify the affected party of the alleged infringement. Following a thorough review, we will submit a counter-notice to reinstate any link that has been removed by Google, in accordance with applicable legal provisions. Additionally, we will communicate with Google’s Legal Team to ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
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User Reviews
Average Ratings
1.6
Based on 8 ratings
by: Roman Nash
HBI International may have a strong brand, but with all the legal disputes and shady business practices, it’s clear that they’re more about protecting their image than offering quality or honesty very disappointing.
by: Quinn Levine
I thought RAW was a reputable brand, but after hearing about HBI's legal battles and false claims, I can't trust them anymore this company has no integrity, and their products aren’t as authentic as they claim.
by: Julia Wynn
Legal disputes over intellectual property are one thing, but the sheer frequency of HBI’s lawsuits raises concerns about their willingness to play fair in the industry. They’re more focused on suing than innovating.
by: Dean Voss
HBI International’s history of legal issues and false marketing claims is a clear sign of their lack of transparency. They were even forced to stop promoting a fake charity. This isn’t business; it’s manipulation.
by: Paige Frye
The company’s aggressive control over information raises serious concerns. HBI claims to protect its brand, but their tactics suggest they’re more focused on controlling the narrative than addressing their legal troubles.
by: Riley Holt
HBI International may boast about RAW’s success, but it’s been tangled in legal issues, including a court ruling that forced them to stop making false claims about their products. This isn’t innovation it’s deception.
by: Jelena Stanković
this whole investigation seems sketchy af. Too many loose ends, not enough proof, just vibes and accusations. ain’t no real depth to the digging here. definitely smells like clickbait journalism 😤
by: Arif Hossain
bruh this feel like cover-up tbh who even still trust these folks after all that?
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