Do you have a fake 500 rupee note in your pocket? Use these RBI tips to spot a counterfeit note in just one minute..

Do you also have a fake 500 rupee note? While this question sounds quite normal today, it hides a significant danger. A recent report from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revealed that counterfeit notes are still circulating freely in the market. This means that you can no longer assume that every 500 rupee note you receive is genuine. Therefore, it has become crucial for ordinary citizens to learn how to identify fake and real notes.

Why are fake 500 rupee notes increasing?

The ₹500 note is the most commonly used note for everyday purchases.
It's used everywhere – for petrol, groceries, auto rickshaws, vegetables, etc.
This is why counterfeit note gangs target it.
The design of the new notes is quite advanced.
Yet, some fake notes look incredibly accurate.
At first glance, it's difficult to distinguish between real and fake.
In a hurry, a fake note can easily end up in your wallet.

Why be cautious?

Passing on a fake note can lead to legal trouble.
Shopkeepers may now refuse to accept the note.
This can lead to arguments and embarrassment.
Vigilance and awareness are the best defense.

RBI's MANI app – the easiest way to identify notes
The RBI's MANI app helps in identifying counterfeit notes.
This app is free on both Android and iOS.
It works offline, even without an internet connection.
It can also identify torn or old notes.
Simply turn on your phone's camera and scan the note.
The app will immediately tell you if the note is real or fake.

Identify it yourself: Security features of a genuine note
There is a shiny security strip in the middle of the note.
The words "India" and "RBI" are written on this strip.
The 500 rupee note changes color when tilted.
The note appears to shift from green to blue.
There is a watermark near Mahatma Gandhi's picture.
This watermark is clearly visible when the note is held up to the light.
"RBI" and "500" are written in micro-lettering. In counterfeit notes, these letters are often blurry.

Perform a UV test
No UV light?
Place a piece of blue transparent plastic over your smartphone's flash.
Shine the light on the note -
In a genuine note, the security thread and serial number will glow in a light blue-green light.

A little caution = great protection
In the era of counterfeit notes, a careful look is essential.
Check the ₹500 note carefully as soon as you receive it.
Always tilt the note slightly to see the color change.
Be sure to check Gandhi's watermark.
If you ever have any doubts, use the RBI's MANI app.

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