Viral Claims Spark Confusion

In recent weeks, social media platforms including WhatsApp, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) have been flooded with claims that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is set to issue new currency notes in 2025. Viral posts alleged redesigned denominations with advanced security features, including polymer-based notes, ultraviolet printing, and holographic strips. Some videos even suggested that the rollout would begin in July 2025 after cabinet approval.

These unverified reports created widespread confusion, with images of supposed new notes circulating online. A video of a fake Rs. 1,000 note alone received over 10 million views on TikTok, fueling public speculation.

Official SBP Statement: No New Notes in 2025

On August 15, 2025, the State Bank of Pakistan issued an official statement on its website denying the rumors. “No proposal for a redesigned series or polymer notes is under consideration,” SBP spokesperson Noor Ahmed confirmed, according to Daily Times.

The central bank clarified that the current notes, introduced between 2005 and 2008, remain legal tender and will continue to circulate. Reports of a cabinet-level approval or plans for a 2025 rollout are baseless.

Confusion deepened after an art competition organized by SBP in January 2024, which invited thematic submissions from artists. The bank emphasized that the competition was not connected to any new note designs. Winners were announced in September 2024, but the entries were never intended for currency printing, according to Business Recorder.

Fake Claims Circulating Online

The SBP identified several fabricated claims that have been shared online:

  • Redesigned Notes: Viral articles claimed new designs featuring landmarks such as Badshahi Mosque (Rs. 10), Khyber Pass (Rs. 20), K2 Mountain (Rs. 50), Minar-e-Pakistan (Rs. 100), Faisal Mosque (Rs. 500), Mohenjo-Daro (Rs. 1,000), and Quaid-e-Azam (Rs. 5,000). SBP confirmed no such designs exist.

  • Polymer Note Trial: Reports of a polymer Rs. 100 note with UV-reactive maps and nano-engraved poetry are fabricated. No polymer notes are planned for 2025.

  • Security Features: Alleged additions such as metallic foil strips, holographic patterns, and glowing maps were declared false. Current Pakistani notes already carry sufficient security features.

  • Art Competition Story: Some posts falsely suggested a prize-winning design from a Quetta-based artist was approved for circulation. SBP clarified the contest was purely artistic.

  • Collector’s Market Hype: Claims that new notes or low-serial numbers could fetch PKR 50,000–100,000 in auctions are misleading. Experts confirmed Pakistan’s numismatic market has no such precedent.

  • July 2025 Rollout: Reports of a phased launch beginning July 2025 with federal cabinet approval were categorically denied, according to Sach News.

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Why the Confusion Spread

Analysts point to several factors that helped misinformation gain traction:

  • Viral Spread: A fake Rs. 1,000 note video gained over 10 million views, with many users mistaking it for authentic.

  • Art Competition Misinterpretation: The 2024 SBP contest for thematic designs was wrongly presented as proof of a redesign plan, despite the bank’s clarification on September 5, 2024.

  • Counterfeit Concerns: Pakistan loses an estimated PKR 2 billion annually to counterfeit currency, according to SAMAA TV. Public frustration may have made the rumors more believable.

  • Unverified Sources: Websites citing anonymous “SBP insiders” or “Karachi officials” without evidence contributed to the spread of fake news.

Public Advisory: Avoid Scams

The SBP has advised the public to remain vigilant against scams linked to fake currency claims. Fraudsters have reportedly offered “pre-orders” for redesigned notes, taking advantage of the misinformation, according to Nespak Foundation.

To stay safe, the SBP recommends:

  • Verify information only through its official website (sbp.org.pk) or @StateBank_Pak on X.

  • Inspect existing notes using watermarks and security threads already in place.

  • Avoid pre-orders or offers promising new notes.

  • Report misinformation to SBP’s helpline (111-727-273) or social media platforms.

Current Currency Status

As of 2025, Pakistan’s existing denominations including Rs. 10, Rs. 20, Rs. 50, Rs. 100, Rs. 500, Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 5,000 remain valid and secure. The SBP has not announced any replacement or redesign.

In recent years, the bank has instead issued commemorative coins, such as the Rs. 75 coin marking Independence Day. These initiatives reflect the SBP’s focus on smaller symbolic releases rather than an overhaul of the currency system.

What’s Next?

The SBP has confirmed there are no plans for new Pakistani currency notes in 2025. Instead, the bank is prioritizing efforts to combat counterfeit notes through awareness campaigns, training for banks, and improved detection systems.

For the public, the message is clear: the current notes remain legal tender, and rumors of a July 2025 launch are unfounded. Any genuine update on currency will come directly from the State Bank of Pakistan.

Note: For official updates, always visit the State Bank of Pakistan’s official website.
Pakistan, News