Key Points:
✔ No RBI Directive – The government confirmed that the viral WhatsApp message about Rs 500 notes being phased out is fake.
✔ Legal Tender Remains – Rs 500 notes will continue to be valid, with no restrictions on ATM withdrawals.
✔ Verify Before Sharing – Authorities warn against spreading unverified financial rumors and advise checking official sources.
RBI Clarifies: Rs 500 Notes Will Continue in ATMs, Dismisses Viral Hoax
New Delhi, [Date] – The Indian government has officially debunked a misleading WhatsApp message claiming that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plans to stop dispensing Rs 500 notes from ATMs in a phased manner. The viral post, which spread rapidly across social media, falsely stated that 75% of ATMs would cease issuing Rs 500 notes by September 2025, with a complete halt expected by March 2026.
In a swift response, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check unit took to X (formerly Twitter) to clarify that no such RBI order exists, and Rs 500 currency notes remain legal tender. The post urged citizens to disregard the misinformation and rely only on official announcements for financial updates.
How the Fake News Spread
The deceptive message advised people to start “liquidating” their Rs 500 notes, suggesting that only Rs 100 and Rs 200 denominations would be available in ATMs in the future. Similar rumors had circulated last month, prompting the RBI and PIB to issue multiple clarifications.
Government’s Stern Warning Against Misinformation
Authorities have repeatedly cautioned the public against believing or forwarding unverified financial claims.
“Do not fall for such misinformation,” the PIB Fact Check team emphasized. “Always cross-check news with official sources like the RBI or PIB before sharing.”
With fake news on currency policies becoming increasingly common, experts recommend double-checking updates directly from the RBI website or verified government handles to avoid unnecessary panic.
Stay informed, stay alert—and always trust the facts.
Leave a Reply