Counterfeit Dollars in Ukraine: Which Banknotes Are Most Commonly Forged

The National Bank advises avoiding cash exchange operations 'from hand to hand', via the internet, or at unlicensed exchange points. For safe transactions, it is better to turn to official exchange offices of banks and non-bank institutions licensed by the NBU. There are dozens of 'online stores' in Telegram that distribute counterfeit dollars. Scammers also open underground 'exchanges' that look like ordinary ones. Even sellers of equipment and other goods may unintentionally receive counterfeit banknotes through popular ad services.

According to the National Bank, in 2024-2025, during the seizure of counterfeit foreign banknotes, 93% were US dollars, while euros accounted for only 7%. The hundred-dollar bill proved to be the most vulnerable, making up 90% of all counterfeits. In second place are fifty-dollar banknotes, which account for 9%.

Buying and selling fiat money is a very common practice, but one must be very careful, as counterfeit dollars can cause serious harm not only to finances but also to reputation. Remember the risks and only deal with legal and licensed currency exchange points.