Counterfeit Currency Surges in Germany, Raising Concerns

Germany experiences a sharp rise in counterfeit money circulation, with smaller denominations being most targeted and new trends in production and distribution emerging.

• Germany reported a 28% increase in counterfeit banknotes seized in 2024, totaling 72,413 notes, the highest since 2017.
• The 50-Euro note remains the most frequently counterfeited denomination, followed by 20-Euro notes, with counterfeiters increasingly targeting smaller bills.
• Counterfeit money is often produced in countries like China and Turkey and distributed via online platforms, including the Darknet.
• In addition to banknotes, counterfeit coins, particularly 2-Euro coins, have risen sharply, with over 141,000 fake coins detected in 2024.
• Authorities urge vigilance, emphasizing methods like feeling, seeing, and tilting to verify authenticity, as well as the use of tools such as chemical pens and specialized devices.

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