Hana Bank, First Domestic Discovery of Ultra-Precise 500 Euro Counterfeit Bill

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Hana Bank announced on the 28th that it detected a counterfeit 500 euro note made with ultra-precise technology.

The counterfeit note discovered this time is crafted with such sophistication that it can only be identified using high-performance optical equipment such as ultraviolet and infrared detection, or by the special ink that changes color depending on the viewing angle. Its production quality rivals the well-known US dollar Supernote and has not yet been reported to law enforcement agencies such as Interpol.

In particular, this counterfeit note was printed using high-performance currency production equipment, making it difficult to verify even with a 30x magnifying glass. It also mimics the anti-counterfeiting features of the European Central Bank-issued notes that use special inks like ultraviolet and infrared, causing challenges in counterfeit detection.

Hana Bank was able to detect the ultra-precise counterfeit euro notes entering the country based on its analytical capabilities, supported by its dedicated organization called the 'Counterfeit Response Center,' which is the only one in the financial sector equipped with specialized equipment and personnel. This center accounts for over 80% of the detection of foreign currency counterfeits in Korea (based on Bank of Korea statistics).

Lee Hojung, head of Hana Bank's Counterfeit Response Center, stated, “Regarding the ultra-precise counterfeit notes discovered for the first time in Korea, we plan to provide analysis data to relevant authorities to enable international cooperation.” He added, “We will actively support multidimensional responses within the domestic banking sector in the future and ensure that all customers transacting with Hana Bank can always use currency with confidence.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.