Paper Hanger Definition and Legal Meaning

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

What is Paper Hanger?

It is a slang term for a person who commits fraud by issuing checks on accounts that does not exist or have no funds or forges currency or bank notes.

History and Meaning of Paper Hanger

The term "paper hanger" dates back to the late 19th century when the primary form of currency was paper money. The term was primarily used to describe someone who would counterfeit currency or checks by printing them themselves. Nowadays, it is commonly used to refer to anyone who is issuing fraudulent checks on accounts with nonexistent or insufficient funds.

Examples of Paper Hanger

  1. The suspect was caught by the police for being a notorious paper hanger in the area.

  2. The bank suffered a loss of millions of dollars because of multiple paper hangers.

  3. The court sentenced the paper hanger to a jail term of two years.

Legal Terms Similar to Paper Hanger

  1. Forger: A person who makes a false document, check, or signature with the intent to defraud.

  2. Embezzler: A person who fraudulently takes money or property entrusted to them by an employer or client.

  3. Counterfeiter: A person who makes false money or copies of official documents with the intention to deceive.