Discover five simple ways to detect fake Naira notes and protect yourself from fraud. Learn about the texture, security thread, gold foil, water solubility, and mercury bulb tests.
Fraudsters are increasingly producing and utilizing counterfeit Naira notes as payment options.
And these counterfeit notes have cost merchants a lot of money because they carry the complete loss.
Counterfeit is a major issue, and everyone should exercise caution.
Also, counterfeits are not only printed in huge quantities like N1000, but also in smaller denominations like N100, N200, and so on.
In this article, I’ll show you how to spot fake Naira notes, using all the available detecting tactics.
Ways To Detect Fake Naira Notes
As fake-making techniques get better, so do ways to spot them.
To help you guard against scam, here are the five easy ways you can detect fake naira notes if by any chance you are given such notes:
- Texture
Feel and appearance are key to telling real and fake notes apart. A soft texture and dim image usually mean it’s fake. This means that when you are participating in any transaction, you should be sensitive to the touch of the money you are given. - Check The Ribbon/Thread
On all Naira notes, there is a security thread that looks like a ribbon and runs from top to bottom. This thread can be felt with a touch in the real notes.This is more noticeable on older Naira bills. In fake ones, there’s a line that looks like a thread but isn’t. It’s just a drawn line mimicking the real thread. Scratching the drawing can easily remove it. - Gold Foil
The right side of the N1,000 bill has gold foil near the CBN Governor’s signature. On a fake bill, this foil instantly comes off when scratched, but it doesn’t on a real one. - Water Or Another Liquid Substance
Water or another liquid substance can also be used to distinguish false cash from genuine currency. The colors used in the printing of counterfeit notes are claimed to be soluble in water and some other liquids. If you doubt a Naira bill’s authenticity, gently wash it with water or petrol. If it’s phony money, the colors will change instantly. The colors of counterfeit money will wash off when soaked in water or any liquid, but the colors of real money will not. - Mercury Bulbs
Some features of the paper Naira bills can’t be seen without aid. These features are only seen in original Naira notes and can only be seen with the aid of mercury lights. For example, if a genuine N1,000 note is exposed to the rays of a mercury bulb, it will reveal a glowing 1000 (in numbers) printed across the note. The same is true for smaller denominations.
The Naira notes are similarly resistant to photocopying. Some details, like the serial number, can be seen under ultraviolet light. It’s black but turns green under UV light.
Keep in mind, it’s always better to be cautious than regretful.
So, next time you receive a Naira note, take a moment to check its authenticity using the methods mentioned above.
It might save you from incurring a loss.
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FAQs
Can the texture of the Naira note be easily distinguished?
Yes, the texture of a genuine Naira note is distinct and can be easily distinguished from a fake one by touch. The texture of a genuine note is firmer, while a counterfeit note will feel softer and have a dull image.
Is the security thread present in all denominations of Naira notes?
Yes, the security thread, which resembles a ribbon, is present in all denominations of Naira notes, from the smallest to the largest.
Can water be used to detect all fake Naira notes?
While water can be used to detect many counterfeit notes as the colors used in printing them are often soluble in water, it may not work for all fake notes as some counterfeiters may use water-resistant inks.
Is it safe to use mercury bulbs to check the authenticity of Naira notes?
Yes, it is safe to use mercury bulbs to check the authenticity of Naira notes. The characteristics revealed under the mercury light are unique to genuine notes and can help in identifying counterfeits.
Are there any other methods to detect fake Naira notes?
Yes, besides the methods mentioned above, there are other methods like using a UV light to check for features visible under ultraviolet light, or using a magnifying glass to check for micro-printing on the notes.
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