Digital transactions accelerated as fake rupiah cases top 1,045 in 2025
Bank Indonesia’s Riau Islands office is ramping up digital payment adoption ahead of Ramadan to reduce counterfeit money risks and ensure smooth economic activity during the festive spending surge.
QRIS Promotion Ahead Of Ramadan
Head of Bank Indonesia’s Riau Islands Representative Office Ronny Widijarto said non-cash payments through QRIS are being optimized as a strategic move to improve transaction security and efficiency.
He encouraged both merchants and consumers in Batam and across the Riau Islands to adopt digital payments. According to him, QRIS is now widely accessible and easy to use, making it a practical alternative during peak shopping periods.
Preventing Counterfeit Circulation
Ramadan and the lead-up to Eid al-Fitr typically see higher cash circulation, increasing the risk of counterfeit rupiah distribution. Ronny noted that shifting to digital transactions can significantly minimize this risk.
Despite promoting non-cash methods, BI continues to educate the public on identifying genuine banknotes using the 3D method: dilihat, diraba, dan diterawang, or look, feel, and hold up to the light.
Counterfeit Findings In 2025
Deputy Head of BI Kepri Adidoyo Prakoso revealed that 1,045 counterfeit banknotes were detected in the Riau Islands throughout 2025.
The fake currency was found in areas including Tanjungpinang and Lingga. The most frequently counterfeited denominations were Rp100,000 and Rp50,000 notes.
Monthly Trend Shows Fluctuations
Counterfeit discoveries fluctuated month to month. Authorities recorded 50 fake notes in January, rising sharply to 270 in February. The number dropped to 150 in March before increasing again to 253 in April and 282 in May.
Reports originated from both banking institutions and public complaints, indicating ongoing vigilance from financial institutions and residents.
Strengthened Coordination With Banks And Police
Bank Indonesia Kepri has intensified coordination with banks and law enforcement agencies to monitor potential counterfeit circulation during the festive season.
The public is urged to exchange cash only through official channels, including banks and BI’s mobile cash services, to reduce exposure to fake currency.
Digital Literacy As Long-Term Safeguard
BI believes strengthening digital payment systems must go hand in hand with improving financial literacy. Expanding QRIS adoption not only enhances efficiency but also supports payment system stability.
As Ramadan approaches, authorities see digitalization as a key safeguard to maintain economic security while ensuring smoother transactions for households and businesses.
Bank Indonesia Kepri’s push for QRIS adoption ahead of Ramadan reflects a broader strategy to curb counterfeit risks and modernize payment systems. With over 1,045 fake notes detected in 2025, digital transactions offer a safer alternative during peak spending seasons. For Indonesians and Singaporeans monitoring regional financial trends, the initiative highlights how payment innovation and public awareness work together to protect economic stability.
Sources: Batampos (2026) , Jawa Pos (2026)
Keywords: Ronny Widijarto, Adidoyo Prakoso, 3D Method, Fake Rupiah Cases, Digital Payment Indonesia
