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Knockoff Browser Extension Filters Amazon Brands

Hacker News •
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A new Chrome extension named Knockoff aims to clean up Amazon search results by filtering out pseudo-brands often characterized by unusual capitalization and phonetic oddities. The tool operates entirely locally within the browser, appraising each listing in place without sending data to the cloud. It leverages a list of over 5,000 established brands, updated daily, and analyzes unknown names for linguistic patterns associated with trademark squatting.

Users can configure Knockoff with three strictness levels: Relaxed, Standard, and Strict, determining whether flagged items are hidden, dimmed, or simply labeled. The extension also includes an option to hide sponsored product listings. Users can maintain personal block or trust lists, which take precedence over other filtering signals. Misclassifications can be reported via a one-click system that feeds into a community-curated list.

Developed under a Fair Source License (FSL-1.1-MIT), Knockoff prioritizes privacy with no accounts or tracking required. Its design emphasizes transparency, allowing users to visually inspect and modify the brand lists. This approach positions Knockoff as a community-driven tool designed to combat the proliferation of low-quality, unverified sellers on large e-commerce platforms.