Võlts

Võlts is an Estonian term that denotes something fake, counterfeit, or falsified. It can function as a noun or an adjective, used to describe items or claims that are not genuine and may be intended to deceive.

The concept applies across many contexts. Common examples include counterfeit money (võltsraha), forged documents (võltsdokumendid), and counterfeit goods (võltskaup). In art, võltsing refers to forgeries of paintings or sculptures. In science or journalism, võltsimine denotes data falsification or misrepresentation. The term also extends to digital content, where authenticity and provenance are important for verifying files, certificates, and software licenses.

Detection and verification rely on security features and independent checks. Physical objects often display security threads, watermarks, microprinting, and special inks; banknotes and official documents may require official verification methods. Digital content can be authenticated through cryptographic signatures, metadata, and provenance records. Consumers are advised to compare with trusted sources and seek verification from issuing authorities when in doubt.

Legally, counterfeiting and fraud involving võltsing are offences in many jurisdictions, including Estonia. Penalties vary with the seriousness and scale of the act and can include fines, restitution, and imprisonment. Authorities counter võltsing through regulation, enforcement, and public awareness, while online platforms increasingly implement measures to improve traceability and deter deception. The word’s exact etymology remains debated, but võlts is a well-established term in Estonian for describing non-genuine items or claims.