In 2012, a total of 620 counterfeits were detected among euro banknotes in circulation in Finland. This number was down slightly from the numbers detected in the previous year, as shown in the statistics below:
| Year | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of counterfeits | 709 | 861 | 1,052 | 827 | 620 |
The EUR 50 note was the most frequently detected counterfeit banknote (193 counterfeits) in 2012, followed by EUR 20 notes (162 counterfeits).
A number of security features have been incorporated into euro banknotes for authentication purposes. Banknote authenticity can be checked by using the simple feel-look-tilt test described in the Eurosystem’s publications. In case of doubt, a suspect banknote should be compared directly with one that is known to be genuine. Instructions and guides for checking banknote authenticity can be found on the Bank of Finland website (www.bof.fi).
In a press release issued today (www.ecb.europa.eu) the European Central Bank provides an overview of the counterfeit situation regarding euro banknotes.
For further information about the situation in Finland, please contact
Jussi Kangas, Banknote Specialist at the Bank of Finland, tel. +358 10 831 3481
Marja-Leena Mönttinen, Forensic Examiner, National Bureau of Investigation, tel. +358 71 878 6437
Jussi Kangas, Banknote Specialist at the Bank of Finland, tel. +358 10 831 3481
Marja-Leena Mönttinen, Forensic Examiner, National Bureau of Investigation, tel. +358 71 878 6437