A counterfeit is a copy of something, such as a banknote or a branded product, that is made to look like the real thing so as to cheat people into believing it is genuine. Which of the following situations is the best example of a counterfeit?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → A gang prints ₹500 notes on special paper so that they look real, and uses them to buy goods in busy markets.
A counterfeit has three parts: it is a copy of something, it is made to look like the real thing, and the aim is to cheat people into thinking it is genuine.
In Option (1) the notes are copies of ₹500 notes, printed so that they look real, and are passed off as genuine to buy goods. All three parts are present.
Why the other options are incorrect
Option (2) A toy shop sells packs of play money for children, clearly marked ‘Children’s Bank’, that look nothing like real notes. — Incorrect. The play money is not made to look real and cheats nobody.
Option (3) A museum shop sells a copy of an old statue with a label that says ‘Replica’. — Incorrect. The copy is openly labelled as a copy, so nobody is cheated into thinking it is genuine.
Option (4) A shoe company makes its own shoes and sells them under its own brand name. — Incorrect. The shoes are the company’s own product, not a copy of anyone else’s.