In 2021, 10,836 counterfeit euro banknotes were withdrawn from circulation in Portugal. The number of counterfeit banknotes withdrawn from circulation decreased by 10% from 2020. The number of counterfeit banknotes detected is residual compared to the total number of banknotes in circulation. The €20 banknote continued to be the most seized denomination.

The counterfeit banknotes seized in 2021 were easily recognisable, with no need for extra verification aids, by just feeling, looking and tilting the banknotes to check their security features (Feel – Look – Tilt method).

Users must always check banknotes when they receive them. A counterfeit banknote cannot be exchanged for a genuine one, which means that users 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. The Banco de Portugal also provides training on this topic for different target groups.

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