18 U.S.C. § 478 – Counterfeiting Foreign Obligations or Securities
This law makes it a federal crime to counterfeit foreign currency or securities.
This statute applies to counterfeit money or financial instruments issued by foreign governments. Federal charges can apply even when the foreign currency is not widely used in the United States.
These cases often involve international commerce, travel, or cross-border financial activity.
What the law prohibits.
A person violates this statute if they knowingly:
- Falsely make, forge, or counterfeit foreign bank notes or securities
- Alter genuine foreign currency to appear as something else
- Participate in creating counterfeit foreign obligations with intent to defraud
Penalties.
A conviction under this statute can result in a fine, up to 20 years in federal prison, or both.
If you’re under investigation for alleged foreign currency counterfeiting, call (314) 900-HELP or contact our criminal defense attorneys to discuss your options.
