Phuket, Thailand – Authorities are investigating two foreign female tourists suspected of using counterfeit US currency at a money exchange in Cape Panwa. The incident, reported on Saturday, March 22, 2025, has raised concerns about fraudulent banknotes circulating in Phuket’s tourist areas.

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The seized bills were taken to a Siam Commercial Bank branch in Central Phuket for verification. However the automatic money-checking machine repeatedly rejected some notes, flagging potential counterfeits. Bank staff noted that 2017-series US bills have been particularly difficult to verify, leading many exchanges to stop accepting them. Due to inconclusive results, the notes were sent to SCB’s head office and the US Embassy for forensic analysis.

The tourists have been placed on an Immigration Bureau watchlist pending investigation results. If the bills are confirmed fake, they could face fraud charges under Thai law. Local businesses are urged to scrutinize US dollar bills, especially from the 2017 series, due to verification challenges.

Forensic tests by Thai and US authorities will determine the notes’ authenticity. If counterfeit, the tourists may face legal consequences, including fines or deportation.

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Advice for Businesses:

• Use advanced verification tools for US currency.
• Be extra cautious with 2017-series bills.
• Report suspicious transactions immediately.

Stay tuned for updates as the investigation progresses.

-Thailand News (TN)