Currency Note: How to identify whether a currency note is real or fake? Click here to know the method

Fake currency or circulation of counterfeit currency in the market can have a lasting impact on the country's economy. Shahid Kapoor's recent web series Farzi also highlighted the issue of fake currency. There are a few tests you can do to know whether the 100, 500 or 2000 rupee notes you are holding are genuine or not.

Look for Watermark

Indian currency notes have a watermark which can be seen when held up to light. The watermark is a portrait of Mahatma Gandhi and appears on the left side of the note.

Check security thread

A security thread runs vertically through the Indian currency notes. RBI is written on this thread along with the denomination of the note.

Check print quality

Indian currency notes that are genuine have better print quality with sharper lines. They may not be there in fake notes.

Check see-through register

All Indian currency notes have a see-through register, an image of the note's denomination, printed on the front and back of the note, which aligns perfectly when held up to the light.

Check for Micro-lettering

Indian currency notes also have micro-lettering which can be seen under a magnifying glass. Micro-lettering is clear on genuine notes but may be blurred on counterfeit notes.

Check the feel of the paper

Indian currency notes that are genuine are printed on the highest quality paper. The paper is not only crisp but also has a unique texture.

Check serial number

Indian currency notes also have a unique serial number printed on them, so it is important to ensure that the serial number on both sides of the note is the same and also matches the serial number printed on the side panel.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) takes several measures to prevent the circulation of fake Indian currency notes. If you come across a fake currency note, you must report it to the authorities without delay. Handling fake currency notes is a criminal offense in India.

When in doubt about the authenticity of a currency note, take it to a bank or money exchange center for verification.