A reference in the fight against counterfeiting

The Banque de France's Counterfeit Research Centre (CRC) is an internationally recognised reference in the field. It provides expertise in all areas relating to the fight against counterfeiting, from the analysis of forged banknotes to the performance of counterfeit resistance tests.

Our teams have extensive experience in the graphic arts industry, and are proficient in both traditional and digital reproduction processes. They have a six-month to two-year head-start on real-world counterfeiters, enabling them to identify the latest counterfeiting techniques. Thanks to continuous market monitoring and experimentation with new materials and equipment, they are able to produce fakes at amateur, semi-professional and professional levels.

Our service offering in the fight against counterfeiting

Our teams provide cross-checking analyses in the following areas:

• counterfeit resistance testing of banknotes and security products
• counterfeit resistance testing of individual security features
• integration recommendations to optimise the effectiveness of security features

They provide assistance in setting up counterfeit analysis laboratories, including training in the identification of printing processes and help with technical classification methodologies.

They also offer their expertise in the identification of counterfeit products, helping to train police forces, and monitoring the activity of counterfeiters on the darknet and social media.

A laboratory specialising in banknote development and production

With more than 20 years' experience in the production of banknotes for the Eurosystem and for clients facing challenging circulation conditions, the Banque de France uses the most up-to-date procedures in banknote production, authentication and quality control.

Our service offering in product innovation and development

The Banque de France assists you at each step of your product development, from the selection of materials to proof of concept. It provides expertise in currency design and issuance, thanks to its advanced analysis laboratory and pilot  facilities.

The Banque de France's assistance includes:

• physical and chemical tests in accordance with your specifications
• the design of new paper thanks to a pilot paper machine that is unique in Europe
• the development of innovative materials
• the printing of new security inks or printed elements on banknotes produced by the different processes using a complete pilot printing line