Currency

Counterfeit notes

The Counterfeit Surveillance Unit

The aim of the Counterfeit Surveillance Unit is to prevent the circulation of counterfeit money. It examines and stores counterfeit money of any currency seized in Malta or confiscated by the police.

The Counterfeit Surveillance Unit may be contacted by telephone on 2550 6012 or 2550 6013, by e-mail or by mail at:

Counterfeit Surveillance Unit
Currency Operations Office
Central Bank of Malta
Castille Place
Valletta VLT 1060

How can I recognise counterfeit euro banknotes?

Various security features have been incorporated into the euro banknotes. These have been put in place to help recognise genuine banknotes.

ECB page on security features

What do I do if I suspect counterfeit money?

As a rule, notify the police immediately if you have received counterfeit money since making use of counterfeit money is just as illegal as manufacturing it. Counterfeit money is not eligible for replacement!

Article 50 (1) of the Central Bank of Malta Act obliges any person who is in possession of any counterfeit, or suspected counterfeit, currency note or coin to withdraw it from circulation and surrender it immediately over to the Bank.