Easy Ways to Check Real or Fake Money, Pay Attention to Color and Hidden Images

Kapanlagi.com - Shocking news comes from UIN Alauddin Makassar Campus, South Sulawesi, where the practice of producing and circulating counterfeit money has been uncovered. The local police have identified 17 suspects involved in this syndicate, with diverse backgrounds, ranging from Civil Servants (ASN), lecturers, to bankers.

The South Sulawesi Police Chief, Irjen Pol Yudhiawan Wibisono, explained that each suspect has a different role in this illegal network.

"Their roles vary," said Yudhiawan, as reported by Liputan6.com on Monday (23/12/2024).

This case serves as a reminder that the circulation of counterfeit money remains a serious threat to society. Therefore, it is important for all of us to increase our vigilance and understand the characteristics and ways to check real money to avoid losses.

1. Recognizing the Characteristics of Real Money

Bank Indonesia (BI) has equipped the rupiah with various attractive security features to help the public recognize the authenticity of the money.

Here are the characteristics of genuine money that you need to know:

Visual Inspection

• Color and Design: Genuine money has bright, clear, and specific colors. Its design is sharp, detailed, and difficult to replicate.
• Security Thread: There is a security thread that changes color on the Rp100,000 and Rp50,000 denominations.
• Color-Shifting Ink: The image of the BI logo shield changes color when viewed from different angles.
• Hidden Image: There is a hidden image in the form of numbers or the writing of BI that appears from certain angles.

Tactile Inspection

• Paper Texture: Genuine money is made from cotton fibers, making it feel rough in certain areas, such as the main image and the writing BANK INDONESIA.
• Intaglio Printing: The intaglio printing technique produces a raised texture on the main image, the national emblem, the nominal number, and the written words.
• Blind Code: There is a blind code in the form of pairs of rough lines on the right and left sides of the money.

Translucent Inspection

• Watermark: There is a watermark in the form of a hero's image on all denominations of banknotes.
• Electrotype: On the Rp100,000, Rp50,000, Rp20,000, and Rp10,000 denominations, there is an electrotype of the BI logo that is visible when held up to the light.
• Rectoverso: The BI logo will appear complete when held up to the light.

2. How to Check the Authenticity of Money

To know the characteristics and how to check if money is real or counterfeit, you can apply the 3D method, which includes:

• Look: Pay attention to the color, design, security thread, color-changing ink, and hidden images on the money.
• Touch: Feel the texture of the paper, intaglio print, and blind person's code on the money.
• Hold up to the light: Check the watermark, electrotype, and rectoverso on the money.

Additionally, make sure you transact in well-lit places to clearly see the details of the money. Conduct currency exchanges at official and trusted locations, and be wary of criminal schemes such as money offers at ATMs or promises of money doubling.

3. Steps to Take if You Receive Counterfeit Money

If you find counterfeit money in your possession, never attempt to spend it! Immediately report it to the nearest bank or Bank Indonesia for clarification. You can also report suspected counterfeiting to the local police station.

The role of the community, banking, and Currency Processing Service Providers (PJPUR) is crucial in combating the circulation of counterfeit money. By increasing vigilance and understanding the characteristics of real money, we can collectively reduce the spread of counterfeit money in our environment.

The case of counterfeit money circulation at UIN Alauddin Makassar serves as a reminder of how important it is for us to be more vigilant. Recognize the characteristics of real money and apply the 3D method (Look, Touch, Hold up to the light) when receiving money. Do not hesitate to report if you find counterfeit money to the authorities.

4. How to quickly distinguish between real and counterfeit banknotes?

One of the most effective ways to ensure the authenticity of an item is to apply the 3D method: See, Touch, and Hold Up to the Light.

By observing security features such as distinctive colors, hidden security threads, unique textures, and invisible watermarks, you can easily tell which is real and which is fake.

5. What should I do if I receive counterfeit money from an ATM?

Immediately report in writing to the relevant bank so they can conduct further investigations. Remember, banks have a responsibility to respond to any reports from customers regarding the discovery of counterfeit money in ATMs.

6. Where can I get more information about the authenticity of rupiah money?

To get more information, you can directly visit the nearest Bank Indonesia office, contact the BICARA service at number 131, or send your questions via email to bicara@bi.go.id.

7. Is keeping counterfeit money an illegal act?

Keeping and circulating counterfeit money is not only a harmful act but also a serious legal violation. Anyone involved in this activity may face severe legal consequences, making it important for us to always be vigilant and maintain our financial integrity.

(kpl/rmt)