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A counterfeit
is an imitation (i.e., a fake) made usually with the intent to
deceptively represent its content or origins, thus increasing sales
appeal due to the reputation of the imitated product. The word
counterfeit most frequently describes forgeries of currency or
documents, but can also describe clothing, software, pharmaceuticals,
watches, or more recently, cars and motorcycles, especially when this
results in patent infringement or trademark infringement. |
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U.S. Secret
Service - Counterfeit Division |
The Secret Service has
exclusive jurisdiction for investigations involving the counterfeiting
of United States obligations and securities. This authority to
investigate counterfeiting is derived from Title 18 of the United States
Code, Section 3056. Some of the counterfeited United States obligations
and securities commonly dealt with by the Secret Service include
- U.S.
currency and coins
- U.S. Treasury checks
- Department of Agriculture food
coupons
- U.S. postage stamps
The Secret Service remains committed to
the mission of combating counterfeiting by working closely with state
and local law enforcement agencies, as well as foreign law enforcement
agencies, to aggressively pursue counterfeiters. To perform at the
highest level, the Secret Service constantly reviews the latest
reprographic/lithographic technologies to keep a step ahead of the
counterfeiters. The Secret Service maintains a working relationship with
the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and the Federal Reserve System to
ensure the integrity of our currency. |
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How
Counterfeiting Works |
Article on HowStuffworks.com
that explains how counterfeiting works. |
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