BB issues public advisory after social media posts claim surge in counterfeit currency

The Bangladesh Bank has expressed concern over posts circulating on social media claiming that a large volume of counterfeit currency has spread across the country.

In a statement issued today (15 October) by its Communications and Publications Department, the central bank said such “misleading” information could cause public confusion and instability. 

“Producing, carrying, or transacting counterfeit currency is completely illegal and a punishable offence. Bangladesh Bank, along with law enforcement agencies, is maintaining strict vigilance and taking regular measures to curb the circulation of fake notes,” reads the statement. 

The central bank urged the public to stay alert in identifying and preventing counterfeit currency and issued four key guidelines:

• Verify features such as the watermark, security thread, embossed print, colour-shifting ink, and micro-text while receiving notes.
• Conduct high-value transactions through formal banking channels.
• Use digital payment methods as much as possible for cash transactions.
• Report any suspicious or counterfeit notes immediately to nearby law enforcement agencies or by calling the national emergency service 999.

The central bank also advised citizens to visit its official website to learn more about the security features of genuine currency notes.