Detecting Counterfeit Currency and Collecting Evidence at the Crime Scene

Forensic Examination in Detecting counterfeit currency and Collecting Evidence at the Crime Scene

Introduction: 

The proliferation of counterfeit currency poses a significant threat to the stability of financial systems worldwide. In combating this pervasive issue, forensic examination plays a pivotal role in scrutinizing the intricate features of banknotes to differentiate genuine currency from sophisticated counterfeits. This comprehensive analysis not only safeguards the integrity of monetary systems but also serves as a crucial deterrent against illicit financial activities. By delving into the intricate details and specialized techniques employed in forensic examination, we can unravel the complexities involved in detecting and preventing the circulation of fake currency.

Observations of Genuine and Counterfeit Special Features and Characteristics of Indian Currency for Comparison:

1. Watermark: 

Genuine: Clear and distinct watermark visible when held up to the light, featuring the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi.

Counterfeit: Often lacks a watermark or displays a blurred or indistinct image when held up to the light.

2. Security Thread:

Genuine: Embedded security thread with inscriptions of 'Bharat' in Hindi and 'RBI' on the thread. The thread is visible when held up to the light.

Counterfeit: A fake security thread may appear as a printed line rather than a fully embedded one. The inscriptions may be missing or poorly replicated.

3. Micro lettering:

Genuine: Tiny letters 'RBI' and the denominational value can be seen with the help of a magnifying glass. Include microprinting at the back of the head and ear of Mahatma Gandhi, filled with letters RBI and the denomination.

Counterfeit: Micro lettering might be absent or poorly reproduced, lacking the sharpness and clarity of the genuine currency.

4. Intaglio Printing:

Genuine: Raised printing gives a tangible texture to the portrait, the RBI seal, and the denominational numeral.

Counterfeit: Lack of the distinct raised texture, with the print often appearing flat and without the characteristic feel of genuine currency.

5. Latent Image:

Genuine: The denominational numeral is visible when the note is held at eye level and tilted.

Counterfeit: The latent image might be absent or may not change when the note is tilted, indicating a potential counterfeit.

6. See-Through Register:

Genuine: The floral design printed on the front and back aligns perfectly when held up to the light.

Counterfeit: Poor alignment or lack of a see-through register, with the design appearing mismatched or inconsistent when viewed against light.

7. UV Feature:

Genuine: Under ultraviolet light, certain features such as the security thread, the denominational numeral, and the RBI seal fluoresce in specific colors.

Counterfeit: Lack of or inconsistent UV features, with some parts of the note not fluorescing or displaying different colors than those of genuine currency.

8. Quality of Paper:

Genuine: High-quality paper with a unique blend of cotton and other fibers, giving the note a distinct feel and texture.

Counterfeit: Inferior paper quality, often lacking the unique texture and feel of genuine currency, and may tear or crumple easily.

9. Optical Fibers:

Genuine Notes: Include yellow, blue, and green optical fibers visible under UV light.

Counterfeit Notes: May have single-color fibers or lack them entirely.

10. Braille/Identification Mark:

Genuine Notes: Include a special design on the left side of the watermark window, identifiable by touch.

Counterfeit Notes: This feature may be printed and may not be identifiable by touch.

11. OVI Feature:

Genuine Notes: Include the denomination with shining green OVI (Optically Variable Ink) in the middle of the note, changing color from green to dark blue when tilted.

Counterfeit Notes: Lack of this feature.

12. Font Size:

Genuine Notes: Show differences in font size upon careful examination and comparison.

Counterfeit Notes: Font size is often smaller.

13. Printing Processes: 

Genuine Notes: Utilize offset and intaglio printing processes.

Counterfeit Notes: Counterfeit notes may exhibit various defects when prepared by methods such as scanning and printing with inkjet printers or multi-colored Xerox copying. These may lack essential security features.

By carefully examining these distinctive features, individuals and authorities can effectively distinguish between genuine and counterfeit Indian currency, safeguarding the integrity of the nation's financial system and preventing monetary fraud.

Searching for Evidence in Counterfeit Note Printing Crime Scene:

1. Printing blocks, whether mounted or unmounted, made of Zinc or Copper, used in the printing press.

2. Etched or hand-engraved blocks or plates employed for the counterfeiting process.

3. Photographic negatives or positives indicating the stages of the counterfeiting operation.

4. Photographic films or chemicals utilized for developing or etching counterfeit designs.

5. Blocks or dies potentially used for creating counterfeit watermarks.

6. Printing inks employed in the production of fake notes.

7. Cutting devices utilized to shape counterfeit notes to their final form.

8. Presence of wax, oil, brushes, gum, or other materials linked to the counterfeiting process.

9. Small printing machines potentially used in the manufacturing of counterfeit currency.

10. Hand numbering machines or typesetting machines that may have been involved in the counterfeiting process.

11. Color photocopying machines that might have been used to replicate genuine notes.

12. Presence of PCs and scanners, possibly used in the design and production of counterfeit notes.