PROGRESO – Homeland Security Investigations say shoppers need to take a closer look at what they’re buying this holiday season. They might be supporting transnational criminal organizations.

HSI agents told CHANNEL 5 NEWS billions of dollars are lost in the U.S. economy every year, because of illegal products that make their way inside.

All the counterfeit items Agent Mark Lippa presented to us were seized in the Rio Grande Valley.

Depending on the type of fake product, such as electronics or battery-powered items, they have a reputation of exploding.

If anyone would like contact HSI about counterfeit items, call their tip line at 1-866-347-2423.

Watch the video for the full story.

Why is it dangerous to buy counterfeit stuff? Counterfeit electronics can overheat & explode, fake bicycle helmets can break upon impact & phony cosmetics can lead to skin issues. Seasonal items like holiday lights can be poorly wired and ignite fires. https://t.co/oYAuHvKdwE pic.twitter.com/4DwMJ3mMzT

— ICE (@ICEgov) November 28, 2019