What is document fraud?
The “document fraud” refers to counterfeiting or alteration of an official document issued by the government agency or an agency approved by a Ministry in Government of Japan. Document fraud also refer to counterfeiting or alteration of document issued by a non-government Organization and/or an authentic company like Bill of Lading issued by a shipping Line or its authorized agent.
Recent developments in photographic, computer and printing technologies, along with the availability of low-cost equipment, have made forgery much easier.
The cases of document alteration and fake documen(s) are increasing rapidly in recent years due to computer software advanced technology. Document(s) ounterfeiting is a serious crime dating back to antiquity. Now the tools and software are more readily available and the document(s) fraud techniques increasingly sophisticated.
Authorities in all countries should be aware that they may see fraudulent document(s) issued from Japan. Fraudulent documents could also have other ramifications, especially when documents relating to goods exported from Japan are forged completely or part of document(s) may altered.
Counterfeit documents
Counterfeit documents are documents that are created to look like genuine documents but are not authorized by the issuing authority in Japan. For example, counterfeit “emission certificate” of a vehicle exported from Japan may look like genuine certificate, but different from the original/genuine.
Forged documents
Forged documents are documents that have been altered or modified without the knowledge or consent of the issuing authority in Japan. For example, an “Vehicle Export Certificate” may be altered/forged or completely counterfeit in attempt to export a stolen car.
Fake documents
Fake documents are documents that are created to deceive or mislead the authorities. They may be entirely fabricated or contain some true information mixed with false information. For example, a fake Japanese vehicle expoer certificate may have real chassis number (vehicle identity number) but a false manufacturing year.
Authorities in all countries are requested to carefully check the detail when reviewing a document. If find a suspecious document, contact issuing agency in Japan for verification.
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