According to the central bank, the 16,723 notes seized represent 3.68% of the total seized in countries that use the Euro as currency, which is why it states that “the number of counterfeits is residual when compared to the almost 30 billion euro notes in circulation".

In 2022, there were 10,732 counterfeit notes seized, meaning that in 2023 there was an increase of 55%.

The BdP says that two seizures of 100 and 200 euro notes contributed to the increase and that it was also these seizures that led to the 100-euro note being the most seized in 2023, changing the trend seen in previous periods, as in 2022 the most seized notes were 10 and 20 euros.

In 2023, 5,353 counterfeit 100-euro notes, 3,425 counterfeit 20-euro notes, 3,334 counterfeit 200-euro notes, and 2,406 counterfeit 50-euro notes were seized.

Last year, there were also seizures of 1,849 counterfeit 10-euro notes, 256 five-euro notes and 100 500-euro notes.

According to the BdP, the majority of counterfeits seized could be detected based on the 'Touch – Observe – Tilt' method, without the use of other equipment (such as magnifying glasses or machines), to verify the existence of the elements of an authentic banknote (in the case of texture and firmness of the cotton paper, watermark or security thread), adding that people should check the notes when they receive them, as a counterfeit note is not refunded and passing a counterfeit note constitutes as a crime.