The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially clarified that no new currency notes are being launched in 2025. Claims about redesigned denominations, polymer notes, or fresh security features are completely false. The existing banknotes remain valid, and people are advised to trust only official SBP announcements instead of social media rumors.
Fake News on Social Media
Recently, platforms like WhatsApp, TikTok, and Facebook have been flooded with misleading posts about “new Pakistani banknotes.” These rumors suggested that:
- All denominations would be redesigned,
- A polymer Rs. 1000 note was being introduced,
- Holographic strips and metallic features were being added for extra security.
These viral claims reached millions of users. However, SBP has now confirmed that such news is baseless.
Official SBP Statement
On August 15, 2025, the State Bank issued a formal notice stating:
- There are no plans to redesign notes or introduce polymer currency,
- All current notes (Rs. 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000), issued between 2005–2008, remain legal tender,
- Reports about cabinet approval or a July 2025 rollout are fabricated.
SBP also mentioned that it is working with cybercrime authorities to trace the source of these rumors. A fake video of a polymer note that went viral on TikTok is also under investigation.
Why People Fell for the Rumors
The false stories gained popularity for several reasons:
- Convincing but fake videos on TikTok,
- Confusion over an SBP art competition in 2024, which was only about ideas, not real banknote designs,
- Pakistan’s ongoing problem with counterfeit currency, which made the news sound believable,
- Misleading posts from fake websites claiming to quote “SBP insiders.”
How to Stay Alert and Safe
To avoid being misled or scammed, SBP has urged citizens to:
✅ Always check updates at sbp.org.pk or SBP’s official verified social media accounts.
✅ Use SBP’s mobile app or UV light to verify banknote authenticity.
✅ Ignore and report anyone offering “pre-orders” for new notes.
✅ Call the SBP helpline (111-727-273) if you come across suspicious news.
Current Notes in Circulation
The following denominations are still in use and remain fully valid:
- Rs. 10, Rs. 20, Rs. 50, Rs. 100, Rs. 500, Rs. 1000, Rs. 5000
In addition, SBP occasionally issues special commemorative coins (such as the Rs. 75 coin) for national events, but these are separate from regular banknotes.
Conclusion
In 2025, there are no new Pakistani currency notes. The rumors about redesigned denominations and polymer notes are false. All existing notes are valid, and citizens should only rely on official SBP announcements to avoid confusion.
