Bangladesh Bank bans use of note replicas in marketing, social media content

It warns such practices “risk fuelling fake note circulation”

Bangladesh Bank has prohibited the use of paper printed to resemble real or sample banknotes for product advertising or social media content, citing risks of fake currency circulation.

The central bank issued the warning on Monday, noting that recently, multiple videos and images on social platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and YouTube have shown marketing campaigns using "sample notes" that mimic the design and size of actual currency.

It said such activities also occur in open markets, where paper resembling real money is used for commercial promotions, creating confusion among handlers.

The bank noted that these actions contribute to the spread of counterfeit notes, undermining overall currency management.

It warned, “Creating paper resembling real banknotes, using them in promotions or showing them on social media is a punishable offence.”

WHAT THE LAW SAYS

Under Section 489(e) of the Bangladesh Penal Code, 1860, any individual or organisation producing, using or distributing documents, papers or objects resembling legal tender and capable of causing confusion is liable for legal action.

The central bank also pointed to Section 25 of the Cyber Security Act, 2023, under which spreading false, misleading or fabricated information online is considered a criminal offence.

The bank advised heightened caution to prevent counterfeit currency circulation and urged people to refrain from producing misleading content or unauthorised campaigns.

It also asked the public to verify the security features of genuine notes through its official website: https://www.bb.org.bd/en/index.php/currency/note