Stacks of cash fanned out for the camera. Bundles tossed in slow motion for dramatic effect. What looked like clever marketing has now drawn a sharp warning from Bangladesh Bank.
On Monday, the central bank banned the use of paper designed to resemble real banknotes in advertisements and social media content, saying the growing trend risks blurring the line between props and counterfeit currency. Officials noted that so-called “sample notes” mimicking the design and size of genuine taka have appeared widely on platforms like Facebook, YouTube and Instagram, as well as in marketplace promotions.
The bank did not mince words: “Creating paper resembling real banknotes, using them in promotions or showing them on social media is a punishable offence.”
Citing Section 489(e) of the Penal Code and provisions of the Cyber Security Act, 2023, the bank warned that individuals and organisations involved could face legal action.
Beyond the legal threat lies a deeper concern. Currency depends on public confidence. When imitation notes circulate freely on screens and in shops, that confidence can erode.
With one firm directive, Bangladesh Bank has made its stance clear: when it comes to money, even make-believe can carry real consequences.