nepgeld

Nepgeld is the Dutch term for counterfeit money, referring to banknotes or coins produced with the intent to deceive people into accepting them as genuine currency. It covers both locally issued currency and foreign currency that is not authorized as legal tender. Distinguishing nepgeld from novelty or prop money is important.

Modern banknotes include security features such as watermarks, security threads, microprinting, color-changing inks, holographic elements, and intaglio printing. Despite these measures, counterfeiters may attempt to imitate notes with varying quality. Coins are sometimes counterfeited using plated or altered materials. Public awareness campaigns and bank alerts help reduce circulation.

The production and distribution of nepgeld is illegal in virtually all jurisdictions. Penalties typically include imprisonment, fines, and potential seizure of the counterfeit cash and related assets. Penalties can escalate with the amount involved or if the forgery involves other crimes.

Detection involves checking security features, feeling the paper, and verifying serial numbers against official records. If a counterfeit is suspected, it should not be passed; instead, it should be returned to the point of withdrawal or handed to authorities or a bank. Banks may verify notes with specialized equipment.

Counterfeiting has a long history and remains an ongoing concern even with modern anti-counterfeiting technology. National central banks, law enforcement, and international cooperation work to detect, seize, and prosecute nepgeld while promoting public awareness.