Syrian Central Bank Addresses Rumors of Counterfeit 500 Lira Notes

In recent hours, concerns have emerged among the Syrian populace due to rumors circulating about a counterfeit banknote of the newly introduced 500 Lira, which was announced approximately two weeks ago.
Some Syrians shared images and claims on social media platforms, particularly Facebook, warning against transactions involving the alleged counterfeit notes, stating that using them constitutes a criminal offense punishable by law.
In response, Abdul Qadir al-Hosriya, the Governor of the Central Bank of Syria, stepped forward to refute these rumors, confirming that the bank has not received any official reports of counterfeiting from banks, financial institutions, or individuals.
In a Facebook post, al-Hosriya stated:
"What is currently being circulated on social media or in public discussions consists solely of unverified rumors, which may aim to create misunderstanding or spread fear and confusion, lacking any basis in official sources."
He added:
"Typically, upon receiving an official report of counterfeiting, immediate action is taken in collaboration with the relevant authorities within the Ministry of Interior."
Al-Hosriya urged Syrians not to be swayed by unreliable news and to rely solely on information from the Central Bank, as this is crucial for maintaining stability and avoiding unnecessary anxiety.
It is noteworthy that the Central Bank has previously indicated that the new Lira incorporates advanced security features that make it difficult to counterfeit, emphasizing the importance of relying on official information to sustain confidence in the national currency.
