Source: "Counterfeit Monitoring System" as at 11 January 2021. 
 

The number of counterfeit banknotes withdrawn from circulation decreased by 26% from 2019. The €20 banknote was the most seized denomination.

Most counterfeits seized are of poor quality and easily detected using the “feel, look and tilt” method. 

The banknotes in the second series of euro banknotes (the Europa series) are of high quality, making them difficult to counterfeit. Nevertheless, users must always check banknotes when they receive them, as a counterfeit banknote cannot be exchanged for a genuine one. i.e. whoever accepts a counterfeit banknote when it is passed off as a genuine banknote will lose their money. 

On their websites, the Banco de Portugal and the European Central Bank provide information on euro banknote characteristics and security features and how to check them. Through its regional network, the Banco de Portugal provides training on the knowledge of euro banknotes for different target groups.

For more on how to detect counterfeit banknotes, please visit the dedicated webpage on the website of the Banco de Portugal.