BB urges public to stay alert against counterfeit notes

Bangladesh Bank today urged the public to remain cautious while handling cash in light of recent media reports claiming that a large volume of counterfeit notes has entered the country.

In a statement, the central bank said that such reports—circulating on Facebook, other social media platforms, and in some daily newspapers—may cause public concern and confusion.

It reiterated that producing, carrying, or transacting counterfeit notes is completely illegal and punishable under the existing laws of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Bank and law enforcement agencies are fully aware of the situation and continue to take effective measures to prevent the circulation of counterfeit currency, the statement added.

The banking watchdog advised people to verify security features—such as watermarks, raised printing, security threads, colour-changing ink (where applicable), and micro-lettering—when accepting banknotes.

People are also encouraged to conduct large-value transactions through banking channels, use digital payment methods as much as possible, and immediately contact the nearest law enforcement agency or call the national emergency service at 999 upon finding or suspecting counterfeit notes, the central bank said.