The amount of counterfeit banknotes discovered in the Russian banking system in the first quarter of 2012 was 19 151, down 15.4% from 22 638 in the fourth quarter of 2011 and down 16% from 22 795 in the first quarter of 2011.

According to the Central Bank, 6 769 counterfeit banknotes were found in January, 5 257 in February, and 7 215 in March.

The thousand-rouble banknote remains the most attractive for counterfeiters, accounting for 76.75% of all forgeries discovered.