The Central Bank of Russia published 2025 counterfeit-currency statistics showing a 20% decline in counterfeit banknotes in circulation to 6,565, equivalent to one counterfeit per one million banknotes. In contrast, counterfeit foreign banknotes increased by 44% to 2,703, driven primarily by counterfeit US dollars. High-denomination ruble banknotes remained the main target for counterfeiters, with 5,000-ruble and 1,000-ruble notes accounting for 62% and 31% of detected fakes, respectively. Most counterfeits were identified in the Central, Southern, and North-Western Federal Districts.
Central Bank of Russia 2026-02-25
Central Bank of Russia reports a 20% fall in counterfeit ruble banknotes in 2025 while counterfeit foreign notes rise 44%
The Central Bank of Russia reported a 20% decrease in counterfeit ruble banknotes in 2025, totaling 6,565, while counterfeit foreign banknotes rose by 44% to 2,703, mainly involving US dollars. High-denomination ruble notes, particularly 5,000-ruble and 1,000-ruble, were most frequently counterfeited. The majority of counterfeits were found in the Central, Southern, and North-Western Federal Districts.