The Central Bank of Samoa has warned the public to remain alert after counterfeit $100 banknotes were identified in circulation.
The warning, issued on 16 September 2026, follows reports from members of the public and commercial banks that counterfeit notes have been detected during the processing of deposits.
The suspected counterfeit notes have been submitted to the Central Bank for verification.
The Central Bank is urging people to carefully check banknotes before accepting or handling cash.
For cotton paper banknotes, the public is reminded to check key security features, including the watermark. When held up to the light, the profile of the late Head of State should be visible along with a bright CBS mark.
On the $50 and $100 tala banknotes, the see-through window should appear as a continuous bold strip when held up to the light.
The Central Bank has identified three $100 banknotes by serial number that have been reported in circulation:
* JD1276962
* JD1276966
* JD1276969
Members of the public are advised not to use any banknote they suspect may be counterfeit.
Anyone who receives or identifies a suspicious banknote should report it promptly to the Central Bank of Samoa or the Police.
The Central Bank says prompt reporting will assist authorities with their enquiries and help prevent counterfeit currency from being circulated further.
The public is reminded to remain cautious and check banknotes carefully when handling cash.
For further information, contact the Central Bank of Samoa on 34150 or 34151.