18 U.S.C. § 481 – Counterfeiting Tools or Images for Foreign Obligations or Securities
This law makes it a federal crime to possess, create, use, or import tools or images used to counterfeit foreign currency or securities.
This statute applies to counterfeiting equipment and image-making methods connected to obligations issued by foreign governments, banks, or corporations. It covers both traditional physical tools and modern digital or electronic images.
Some violations do not require proof of intent to defraud. Others do.
What the law prohibits.
A person violates this statute if they knowingly, and without lawful authority:
- Possess, control, or use plates, stones, or tools used to print counterfeit foreign obligations
- Allow such tools to be used in counterfeiting foreign currency or securities
- Make or engrave plates or tools in the likeness of genuine foreign printing plates
- Print, photograph, engrave, or sell impressions or likenesses of genuine foreign obligations
- Bring counterfeit plates, tools, engravings, or impressions of foreign obligations into the United States
A person also violates this statute if they knowingly and with intent to defraud:
- Make, acquire, scan, capture, record, transmit, reproduce, sell, or possess analog, digital, or electronic images of foreign currency or securities
No counterfeit currency must actually be produced for charges to apply.
Penalties.
A conviction under this statute can result in a fine, up to 25 years in federal prison, or both.
If you’re under investigation for alleged foreign currency counterfeiting tools or digital images, call (314) 900-HELP or contact our criminal defense attorneys to discuss your defense.
