Professional sports are big business.

With the billions of dollars generated annually though game tickets, merchandise and memorabilia, it should come as no surprise that counterfeiting has become a major issue.

In 'Faking It,' a special TSN/CTV W5 co-production, Senior Correspondent Rick Westhead investigates how some sports memorabilia is not be what it seems, how fans are being taken in by fake tickets, and how bogus team jerseys from China make their way to Canada.

Think you may have come across a counterfeit hockey jersey? Here's how to identify a fake:

Logo: It should feel smooth and thin not bubbly.

Fake Jersey label

Colour: Team colours may be slightly lighter or darker than an official jersey.

Fake jersey tag

Inside Stitching: The front logo and back name should be sewn directly into the jersey.

Crest Stitching: Stitiching should be clean...there should never be frayed threads around the logos and letters.

Four years ago, the Montreal Canadiens put a web page on their official site on how to identify fake jerseys, which can be seen here. 

How can you avoid getting scammed out of counterfeit tickets for live sports and events? Here are some tips:

Source: Buy from a trusted retailer with a money back guarantee

Payment: Use a credit card if possible

Fake tickets

Background: Get to know your seller, ask for ID and any social media links to verify identity

Location: Ask to meet the seller in a busy public location. If they refuse to meet you there, it's likely a scam.

Longevity: Buy from a season ticket holder

Type: Never buy print at home tickets - always get a hard copy original ticket

Watch the TSN series and W5 investigation:

Part 1: The Name Game – Thursday at 6pm et on SportsCentre
Part 2: Tickets to Nowhere – Friday at 6pm et on SportsCentre
Part 3: Jersey Ploys – Saturday at 6pm et on SportsCentre
Faking It (full report):  Saturday at 7pm et on CTV's W5