Photocopy and Counterfeit Documents

ocument Evidence can examine photocopy/printed documents to:

• Establish whether they are genuine or counterfeit
• Determine how they have been generated
• Link them to specific machines.
  

With the rapid development of new technology, equipment available to the counterfeiter is becoming far more sophisticated and far cheaper. The following types of counterfeit are at present the most common:

PHOTOCOPY
It is possible to conclusively link a photocopy document to a specific photocopier. The scientist will look for marks on the photocopy originating from specks of dust or scratches on either the glass platen or the photocopier drum.

Some of these marks are transient - cleaning the glass platen will remove dust and dirt. If the marks originate from damage to the internal mechanism they may not appear on every copy, and may appear in slightly different places.

When taking specimens:

• Put a blank sheet of paper on the platen
• Take at least six specimens
• Obtain specimens that are contemporary with the questioned photocopy.

COLOUR PHOTOCOPY
Colour photocopiers are increasingly being used to produce counterfeit currency. Experience has shown that it may be possible for the scientist to link a document to a specific colour photocopier and submission of the machine itself may assist. Colour photocopiers may be used in conjunction with computers. Examination of the computer itself may be of more value.

OFFSET LITHOGRAPHY
It is possible to link documents directly to printing plates, blankets and artwork. Examination of the machine itself or of inks and papers is normally of less value.

IN ALL CASES INVOLVING PRINTING PLEASE PHONE US TO DISCUSS THE BEST WAY OF SUBMITTING THE CASE. THE SCIENTIST CAN VISIT THE SCENE TO ASSIST IN THE SELECTION OF MATERIALS FOR EXAMINATION.