SBP Introduce New Pakistani Banknotes in 2025
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially denied reports about launching new currency notes in 2025. Social media has been flooded with claims about redesigned notes, polymer-based Rs. 1000 bills, and upgraded security features. However, the central bank has clearly stated that these stories are false and the existing notes will continue to remain valid.
Social Media Buzz and Fake News
In recent weeks, platforms like WhatsApp, TikTok, and Facebook have been filled with rumors about “modern Pakistani banknotes.” Many posts suggested that:
- All denominations would be redesigned,
- A polymer Rs. 1000 note would be introduced,
- Advanced metallic and holographic features would be added.
These posts attracted millions of views and shares, creating widespread confusion. But according to SBP, none of these claims are true.
SBP’s Official Statement
On August 15, 2025, the central bank issued a detailed clarification. It confirmed that:
- There are no approved plans for new designs or polymer notes,
- The currently circulating notes (Rs. 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000) introduced between 2005 and 2008 remain valid,
- Reports about government approval or a July 2025 launch were completely fabricated.
The SBP also said that its cybercrime team is working to identify the sources of these misleading stories, including a fake viral video of a polymer note on TikTok.
Why People Fell for the Rumors
The false news gained credibility for several reasons:
- Professionally edited videos on TikTok made the rumors look real,
- Confusion from SBP’s 2024 art competition, which was only about collecting creative design ideas, not actual banknotes,
- Pakistan’s ongoing issues with counterfeit notes made people assume a redesign was necessary,
- Fake websites and social media pages posing as SBP insiders added to the illusion.
How to Protect Yourself from Scams
The SBP has urged citizens to stay alert and follow these safety steps:
✅ Rely only on official updates from sbp.org.pk or SBP’s verified social media accounts.
✅ Use SBP’s mobile app or a UV light to confirm the authenticity of banknotes.
✅ Do not fall for offers of “pre-orders” for new notes.
✅ Report suspicious messages, videos, or claims to SBP’s helpline at 111-727-273.
Banknotes Currently in Circulation
The following denominations continue to be legal tender:
- Rs. 10
- Rs. 20
- Rs. 50
- Rs. 100
- Rs. 500
- Rs. 1,000
- Rs. 5,000
The SBP has also released commemorative coins, such as the Rs. 75 coin, on special occasions. However, no changes have been made to the regular series of notes.
Final Word
To put all rumors to rest: Pakistan is not launching new banknotes in 2025. The existing currency remains valid, and people are advised to trust only official announcements from SBP. By ignoring fake forwards and double-checking information from reliable sources, citizens can protect themselves from scams and misinformation.
