In 2022, the number of counterfeit euro banknotes withdrawn from circulation fell by 1% from 2021. 10,732 counterfeit banknotes were withdrawn, accounting for 2.86% of total seizures in the Eurosystem. The number of counterfeit banknotes detected is residual compared to the total number of banknotes in circulation. The €10 banknote was the most apprehended denomination in Portugal, unlike previous years, when the most seized denomination was the €20 banknote.

The counterfeit banknotes withdrawn can be identified using the “Feel – Look – Tilt” method.

You must check banknotes when you receive them. As you cannot exchange a counterfeit banknote for a genuine one, you will lose money if you get one.

The Banco de Portugal and the European Central Bank provide information on their websites on euro banknote characteristics and security features. The Banco de Portugal provides training on the knowledge of euro banknotes for different groups.

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