Bangladesh Bank has warned that creating or promoting content featuring images or replicas of banknotes on social media is a punishable offence, citing provisions of the Penal Code.
The central bank said on Monday that producing paper resembles genuine banknotes, using materials in promotional campaigns, or displaying them in social media videos constitutes a criminal offence.
It noted that a number of videos and images have recently appeared on platforms including Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, where sample notes similar in design and size to genuine currency, and sometimes larger replicas, are being used for self-promotion or content production.
Bangladesh Bank said incidents have also been observed where paper resembling real currency is being used in commercial promotions in markets and public places.
Such activities may contribute to the spread of counterfeit notes and undermine overall currency management, it added.
Under Section 489(6) of the Penal Code, 1860, any person or institution that prepares, uses or distributes any document, paper or object resembling circulating banknotes and capable of causing confusion will be considered to have committed a punishable offence, the central bank said.
Legal action will be taken against those involved, it added.
Bangladesh Bank also said spreading false, misleading or rumour-based information through digital platforms may constitute an offence under Section 25 of the Cyber Security Act.
The central bank advised the public to remain vigilant to prevent the circulation of counterfeit notes and to refrain from producing or promoting misleading content or engaging in unauthorised activities.
