Euro banknotes 

Most detected counterfeits can be identified without resorting to support equipment. The “Feel-Look-Tilt”-methodology manages, alone, to screen the vast majority of counterfeit banknotes.

First of all, any banknote in hand should be evaluated, which involves:

• Comparing it with another proven authentic banknote of the same denomination; 
• Checking the security features on the basis of 3 simple authentication procedures (“Feel-Look-Tilt”):

  

 Evaluation of a banknote’s authenticity should not be restricted to one of its security features. Two or more security features should be analysed. If doubts still persist as to a banknote’s authenticity, it should be presented to a Banco de Portugal cash office or credit institution branch where clarification will be provided.
Whenever a false or counterfeit banknote is received as payment or change, the holder of such banknote shall:

• register all personal details of the person who passed on the counterfeit/false or suspect banknote, as well as the circumstances under which such action occurred, since this information will be of great importance for police intervention; 
• go to the criminal police, Banco de Portugal or any credit institution. These entities may aptly evaluate the authenticity of the banknote and, should inauthenticity be confirmed, they are legally bound to withhold such banknote; 
• provide information regarding the circumstances under which the false/counterfeit or suspect banknote was passed on.