The Rise of Counterfeit Dollars in Ukraine: How to Distinguish Counterfeits

Ukrainians are beginning to face problems exchanging American dollars, especially hundred-dollar bills. The National Bank has recorded a rise in the number of counterfeit dollars to 3.4 cases per million genuine banknotes, but experts believe this is still significantly lower than the pre-war level of 7.1 cases per million. Nevertheless, people are urged to be cautious.

What to Avoid

Some fraudsters prefer counterfeit hundred-dollar bills, and fraud often occurs in unofficial places, such as markets, streets, or near train stations. Among the circulation are old banknotes issued before 2013, as well as newer ones that have enhanced security features.

How to Identify Real Money

When checking hundred-dollar bills, it is important to pay attention to several key elements. For instance, the watermark should be visible in the light, the holographic strip of newer notes is woven into the paper, and the 'bell in the inkwell' on banknotes after 2013 changes color when tilted. Also, attention should be paid to the quality of the paper, microprinting, and other details.

The safest approach is to go to official banks for currency exchange, where special equipment is used to verify the authenticity of money and almost entirely avoid the risk of receiving a counterfeit bill.

Counterfeit American dollars are becoming an increasingly serious problem in Ukraine, so residents are advised to be cautious when exchanging currency, check banknotes for authenticity, and visit official banks to avoid fraud.