The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) and the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) have issued an official alert following an increase in the detection of counterfeit ₡10,000 bills circulating in businesses and markets across the country. According to police reports, a network of at least eight individuals has been identified operating mainly in downtown San José and surrounding areas, using distraction methods to introduce the forged notes.

Investigations indicate that the counterfeit bills, produced with materials that mimic polymer, lack the essential security features found in the original currency. Among the most common scams reported is the “lottery trick,” as well as the use of crowded small shops to prevent clerks from inspecting the bills thoroughly.

How to Identify the Fake Bills

Authorities recommend applying the “Touch, Look, and Tilt” technique to avoid falling victim to fraud:

• Touch: Authentic bills contain raised printing on the portrait (José Figueres Ferrer) and on the “10,000” denomination. Fake versions tend to feel smooth or have a rough plastic texture.
• Look: When held against the light, the genuine bill should display a transparent window with the map of Costa Rica and the denomination number clearly visible. In counterfeits, this window often appears opaque or poorly printed.
• Tilt: On authentic bills, the map of Costa Rica shifts from green to blue when tilted, and the floating circle inside should move. In replicas, this effect is static or absent.

The BCCR reminds the public that financial institutions are required to retain any suspicious bill without the possibility of exchanging it for a genuine one. Authorities urge citizens and businesses to strengthen verification measures before accepting cash. Anyone detecting a suspicious bill is encouraged to file a complaint with judicial authorities in order to trace the source of the prints.