Illegal trade and looting of archeological sites has been happening for centuries, but in recent years it has become more widespread and more serious. The growing earnings and profits from archaeological material are tempting to individuals who want to take advantage of it. Therefore, the state apparatus, museums and all heritage institutions should unite in order to work on combating this problem. With the development of archeology as a science, there has been a greater demand for archaeological material, and with it comes a threat to cultural heritage. The threat to cultural heritage is something that happens constantly, and often this kind of crime is considered a "crime without victims", which is why it has been neglected many times. It should be remembered that the world cultural heritage is something that once it disappears can no longer be fraternized and as such deserves a higher level of security and respect for it. The aim of the paper was to bring closer the problems that occur regarding illegal trade and looting of archeological sites from the very beginning until today. The paper will explain the history of illegal trade and looting of archaeological sites, the current situation, how sites and objects should be treated, how to protect them and also show how museums and professional archaeologists treat cultural heritage. The basis for this paper will be professional articles, research and basic concepts related to this topic, but also the laws in force in the Republic of Croatia.