THEY are out looking for "bargains".

But members of York's trading standards team will be packing a punch if they find what they want - counterfeit DVDs.

Officers will be visiting car boot sales across the city as part of an undercover string operation to catch traders selling illegal copies.

Posing as visitors, they will purchase a suspect DVD and - if they are satisfied that it is an illegal reproduction - will seize the trader's stock.

The seller can be arrested, and the police have powers to search their home looking for other counterfeit goods and recording equipment.

In extreme cases, the courts can even claim back money that is believed to have been gained through illegal activities.

Matt Boxall, acting trading standards manager at City of York Council, said: "Many people think that picking up DVDs from car boot sales is a cheap way to see their favourite film.

"Though the vast majority are high-quality, second-hand versions, some are counterfeit. The poor quality of the reproductions frequently makes them impossible to watch, so instead of getting a bargain, the buyer has simply wasted their money.

"Rogue traders are very good at trying to disguise the fact that their wares are counterfeit, and are becoming increasing sophisticated in the way they market them.

"However, our team is trained to pick up on minute differences, such as the quality of the covers and incorrect serial numbers."

Coun Andrew Waller, the council's environment chief, said: "The council will use its powers to clamp down on illegal trading of counterfeit CDs and DVDS.

"These sales frequently support criminal gangs and we will not tolerate this happening in York. We want York to be a safe city for its residents."

Updated: 10:02 Thursday, April 20, 2006