An internet scam was today believed to have been scuppered after counterfeit designer goods worth stg£70,00 were seized by police in Co Down.
A man and woman were arrested when fake Christian Dior handbags, which had fake certificates of authenticity were uncovered at a house in Bangor.
Detectives said they believed the goods were destined to be sold on the internet in the run-up to Christmas.
North Down area commander, Chief Inspector Ian McCoy, urged shoppers to avoid anyone trying to sell goods under suspicious circumstances in the run-up to the festive season.
"What we have here are Christian Dior handbags which would normally be sold , with a certificate of authenticity, for close to #1,000 each.
It was a timely reminder to everyone, he said. "Shopping on the internet for your Christmas presents is a fast and easy way to do things, but criminals are trying to use this to their advantage.
"You must ensure that the web site you are buying from is a reputable site and never give your personal or banking details to a site that you have never heard of or your are unsure of."