Impression By Traced Forgery

In the effort to determine whether it was possible to successfully “forge” indented impressions, 39 individuals were asked to trace entries on a prepared form. An Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA) was used to develop indented impressions created by the tracings. The developed impressions were then compared to the prepared entries. The research indicated that fully developed ESDA impressions that consist of more than a short single stroke were readily identifiable as the product of original writing or the product of tracing. Additionally, many impressions consisting of short single strokes were also detectable as authentic impressions or traced forgeries. Further, weak ESDA impressions of more than 2 letters or formations were also identifiable as “forged” tracings.