Forger Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Forger, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Forger?

(n) Forger is the person who counterfeit or otherwise alter a document, records, identity, signature etc with an intention to fake the document and draw undue benefit from that which he is not otherwise eligible.

History and Meaning of Forger

Forgery has been a crime since humans started writing, although the crime has taken various forms over the years. The world's first known forgery happened in Mesopotamia over 3000 years ago. While the basic definition has stayed the same (to falsify a document or signature for personal gain), advances in technology have made it easier and harder in different ways for forgers.

A forger can now steal personal identity information to make false documents or alter a document electronically, so it's vital to take precautions in safeguarding important documents.

Examples of Forger

  1. A forger makes a fake pass and tries to enter a sports event.
  2. A forger changes the name on a vehicle’s registration to sell it without the owner's knowledge.
  3. A forger changes the amount on a check to get more money than they are entitled to.
  4. A forger uses another person's credentials to access personal health or financial information.
  5. A forger alters a Will to include themselves as the primary beneficiary.

Related Terms

  • Fraud: A broader term often used to describe the use of deception to obtain something of value
  • Counterfeiting: Producing false or fake copies of objects, including currencies, with the intent to deceive or defraud
  • Identity theft: The use of someone else's personal information without their consent to commit fraud or other crimes