Scam in PhilippinesChanging money
Counterfeit banknotes in Philippines
How it works
Fake notes enter circulation and may be passed to you during a cash transaction. Notes of ₱100 and above are common targets, but fake ₱20 and ₱50 notes also appear.
Warning signs
- A note looks or feels different from other notes of the same type.
- You receive an unfamiliar note as change.
How to avoid it
- Check notes when receiving cash or change.
- Do not assume that a small-value note must be genuine.
- Keep transaction receipts where available.
If it happens to you
Do not knowingly pass the note to someone else. Keep it separate and ask a bank or the police how to proceed.
- Move to a safe public place. Do not chase thieves or start a confrontation.
- Check whether anyone is injured. Get medical help if needed.
- Freeze missing payment cards. Secure affected accounts and block a stolen phone through your provider.
- Save receipts, booking records and messages. Write down the time, place, vehicle details and what happened.
- Report the incident to the police. For taxi complaints, contact the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on 1342.
- Contact your insurer. Ask your embassy for help if your passport is missing or the incident is serious.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government advice2019CHECK YOUR BANKNOTE: Public Advisory on Counterfeit DetectionThe Philippine central bank describes counterfeiters arrested after attempting to pay a fish vendor with a fake ₱1,000 note and urges the public to check banknote security features.Read on Government advice
- Government advice20242024 BSP Annual ReportThe central bank reports enforcement operations that seized counterfeit Philippine peso and US dollar banknotes and led to arrests and criminal charges.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the counterfeit banknotes scam in Philippines?
Fake notes enter circulation and may be passed to you during a cash transaction. Notes of ₱100 and above are common targets, but fake ₱20 and ₱50 notes also appear.
How can I spot it early?
A note looks or feels different from other notes of the same type. You receive an unfamiliar note as change.
How do I avoid counterfeit banknotes in Philippines?
Check notes when receiving cash or change. Do not assume that a small-value note must be genuine. Keep transaction receipts where available.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not knowingly pass the note to someone else. Keep it separate and ask a bank or the police how to proceed.
Where in Philippines does this happen?
Cash transactions, especially in small shops
How common is this scam in Philippines?
Common. Taxi overcharging and theft are common risks in the Philippines, especially in busy city areas. Watch for drivers refusing the meter, bag snatchers, pickpockets and distractions such as dropped coins or spilled drinks. Keep valuables out of sight and settle disputes calmly.
Who can I report it to?
Philippine National Police (PNP): report theft, robbery, threats or fraud at a police station or Police Community Precinct. Bring the evidence you have and ask for a report reference or copy. Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board: call 1342 for a taxi complaint. Keep the plate number, trip details and any receipt. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app or verified contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help after passport theft, a serious crime or hostage taking. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss. Taxi booking app: report the trip through the app and include the booking record, driver details and disputed charge.
Reviewed by @snuck