Scammers are exploiting the introduction of the new 1,000 and 5,000 ruble banknotes to mislead citizens. In a radio interview, a curator from the Moshetovka project spoke to Alla Khrapunova about the risks and the tactics used by fraudsters.
The fraud schemes described involve callers who pretend to be officials from social services or representatives of the Central Bank. They pressure people to urgently exchange old banknotes for the new ones, claiming that the old notes will soon be exhausted. Scammers also take advantage of older residents who are naturally cautious about unfamiliar currency, offering to swap the new notes for the old ones at ATMs or in other seemingly convenient ways.
Experts emphasize that there is no need for an urgent currency exchange. Old banknotes will continue to circulate alongside the new ones for the foreseeable future. Citizens should stay calm and resist any pressure to rush a currency exchange or to disclose personal financial information over the phone or in person to unfamiliar callers. The key message is simple: legitimate financial authorities will not demand immediate exchanges under threat or time pressure.
On October 16, the Bank of Russia unveiled an updated design for the 1,000 and 5,000 ruble notes. The new notes feature imagery connected to one of Russia’s federal districts. The obverse side shows regional capitals, while the reverse highlights cultural and natural attractions from the corresponding constituent entity of the federation. This change aims to reflect regional diversity and to modernize security features that deter counterfeiting. In practice, such updates are part of ongoing currency modernization programs that blend aesthetic representation with enhanced durability and protection against forgery.
There was previous public commentary from the Bank regarding circulating information about a new ten-thousand-ruble note. The bank stressed careful dissemination of such information and encouraged the public to rely on official channels when verifying any news about currency changes. This ongoing dialogue underscores the importance of verifying currency updates through official Bank of Russia communications and trusted financial institutions.
For residents across Russia, the arrival of new banknotes is a notable financial event, but it does not require immediate actions from the public. It is sensible to verify any alert directly with the Bank of Russia, review official notices, and consult trusted banking staff if there is any doubt. Community outreach by regional banks and consumer protection agencies helps spread verified information and counteract fraudulent schemes. In daily life, people can protect themselves by staying skeptical of unsolicited calls, avoiding message prompts to exchange money at ATMs they do not recognize, and never sharing personal or financial details with unknown contacts.
In practical terms, vigilance remains the best defense. When handling currency updates, the most reliable approach is to check official Bank of Russia announcements, confirm the status of new notes with a local bank branch, and follow standard banking procedures for exchanging money. The evolving landscape of currency design should always be approached with a calm, measured response rather than haste born from fear or pressure. By keeping to official channels and exercising prudent skepticism, citizens can safely navigate the transition while maintaining confidence in their financial system.