Welcome to BootlegFree.org, the web's premiere resource for information on identifying bootleg anime merchandise and products, as well as a listing of bootleg free vendors and conventions.
We are currently in the midst of updating our new website, but until then, here are some resources you may find of use.
Identifying Bootlegs
Need help identifying bootlegs? The following links provide information on identifying bootleg products.
KeepAnimeAlive.comJazzMess Bootleg FAQ
The Pirate Anime FAQ
Robert's Anime Corner Store Bootleg FAQ
Buying Authentic Japanese Plush Guide
New! Good Smile Company Bootleg Warning Listing
Anime Cel Collection Guide
Anime Fans Against Bootlegs Facebook Page
New! StopFAKES.gov
New! Creative America
BootlegFree.org Approved Vendors
Not sure if a vendor is selling bootlegs?
The following vendors are guaranteed to sell 100% LEGITIMATE items.
Look for the BootlegFree.org logo in the dealer's room at a convention near you!
Anime USAThe following vendors are guaranteed to sell 100% LEGITIMATE items.
Look for the BootlegFree.org logo in the dealer's room at a convention near you!
Black Knight Comics
Eagle Anime
Funimation Entertainment
Hammergirl Anime
Media Blasters
Section 23
Sentai Filmworks
BootlegFree.org Certified Conventions
What is a BootlegFree.org Certified Convention?BootlegFree.org certifies conventions that either have, or strive to have, 100% LEGITIMATE merchandise in their dealer's room. These conventions also agree to have a transparent policy for removing bootleg items if they are found for sale at the convention. Just because a convention isn't on this list doesn't mean it isn't bootleg free. But only these conventions have met Anime Defense's guidelines for certification.
Anime Detour
Bakuretsu Con
Learn how to become a certified convention
Why Should I Care?
Unlike with legitmate merchandise, none of the profits from the sale go back to the original creator.Bootleg merchandise is made as cheaply as possible, which results in a serious drop in quality of the product. This can result in video artifacting, corrupted sound, malformed figurines, paint chipping, and other side effects.
There have been instances in which hazardous materials have been used in the manufacturing of bootleg merchandise, and your health could be at risk as a result.
Many times the profits from the sales of bootleg merchandise go to fund disreputable organizations.
A service of the Anime Defense Project, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation.
© 2013 Anime Defense Project, Inc. All rights reserved.