A viral article falsely claimed that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is set to launch newly designed currency notes in late 2025. However, SBP officials have firmly denied these reports, calling the news “completely fake.”

What the Fake Article Claimed:
The misleading report alleged the introduction of polymer notes with advanced features, such as:

• Markhor printed on the PKR 50 note

• Allama Iqbal’s poetry engraved on notes

• UV-reactive maps and Sufi dancer silhouettes on PKR 500

• A secret 2024 art competition to design the notes

These claims have been officially refuted by the SBP.

Official Statement from SBP:
An SBP spokesperson clarified:

“We have no plans to change the design or test polymer notes in 2025. The current notes, issued between 2005 and 2008, will remain valid.”

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Additionally, SBP dismissed all claims of nano-engraving, secret contests, or high-tech features being introduced.

Why This News Is Fake:

• No Credible Source: The article refers to “SBP insiders” with no evidence. SBP’s website and verified X account (@StateBank_Pak) have made no such announcements.

• Fabricated Stories: The so-called art contest with a Rs. 1 million prize never occurred.

• Rumors Around Collector Hype: Claims that these fake notes will be sold for Rs. 50,000–100,000 are baseless.

• Wrong Technology Claims: The SBP has not implemented the high-tech features mentioned in the article.

The Reality:
SBP routinely enhances security features, but no new design plans are underway. The last update was in 2019 with improved security on the PKR 1,000 note. Any future changes will be announced publicly with 12–18 months’ notice.

Impact of the Fake News:

• Public confusion has increased, with collectors even trying to pre-order nonexistent notes.

• The rumor misled people into thinking new notes would rise in value by 25–30%, posing financial risks.

• SBP warned such misinformation could fuel scams.

How to Stay Safe from Fake News:

• Verify Information: Visit www.sbp.org.pk or follow @StateBank_Pak on X.

• Ignore Rumors: Don’t trust WhatsApp forwards or social media posts without official sources.

• Report Fake News: Call SBP’s helpline at 111-727-273 or report misinformation on social platforms.