CBK issues guidelines on ‘how to handle’ suspected banknotes

The Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) has issued an awareness blog post today on its X account, offering guidance on how to deal with suspected counterfeit banknotes.

The initiative comes as part of the Bank’s ongoing commitment to promoting financial awareness and reinforcing the shared responsibility of safeguarding the national currency.

In its post, the CBK stressed the importance of verifying the authenticity of banknotes during everyday transactions, urging the public to remain vigilant.

The CBK stated, “We emphasize the importance of checking the integrity of banknotes during daily use as part of our collective duty to protect the national currency.”

The bank also advised that if there is any suspicion regarding a banknote’s authenticity, it should not be used or circulated. Instead, the note should be taken to the nearest local bank branch or the Central Bank’s banking hall, where experts can assess and verify its validity.

The Central Bank also highlighted the advanced security features of the sixth edition of the Kuwaiti dinar banknotes, designed to combat forgery and ensure durability, including:

• A watermark of a hawk’s head visible when held against light.
• A wave pattern on the front that changes color when tilted.
• A color-shifting security thread on the back of the note that changes shine and hue with movement.
• Raised printing that can be felt by touch.

The CBK reaffirmed its ongoing efforts to maintain the quality and security of Kuwait’s banknotes, encouraging the public to stay informed and cautious when handling currency.