Which term refers to the act of counterfeiting?

The term that refers to the act of counterfeiting is "forgery." Forgery is specifically defined as the action or process of creating a false document or representation with the intent to deceive. This can involve documents like signatures, contracts, or currency. It emphasizes the element of deceit, as the creator aims to make the forged item appear legitimate and authentic.

In the context of counterfeiting, forgery highlights the legal implications and the intent to mislead others into believing that a false item is real or valid. Understanding this term is crucial, especially in fields related to law, finance, or security, where the integrity of documents and authenticity is paramount.