8.27 Counterfeiting (18 U.S.C. Sec. 471) is a federal crime that involves the making, selling, or possession of fake or counterfeit money, goods, or services. It is a violation of U.S. law and is punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both. There are two main types of counterfeiting covered by 18 U.S.C. Sec. 471: fraud and forgery. Fraud includes the deliberate use of fake or counterfeit money to purchase goods or services, or to deceive others into believing they are getting genuine money in exchange for goods or services. Forgery includes the deliberate alteration of legitimate money, goods, or services, or the production of counterfeit money, goods, or services with the intent to deceive. Counterfeiting is a serious crime and can carry significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and seizure of assets or property.