Counterfeit ‘G5’ Banknotes Prompt Alert Among Quintana Roo Merchants

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — So-called “G5 banknotes” have renewed alarm among merchants across Quintana Roo after reports that counterfeit 200-peso notes were used to pay at businesses in Chetumal.

The term “G5” circulates on social media to advertise what are pitched as high-quality copies of Mexican currency. Mexico City’s Cyber Police recently warned that such posts also serve as bait for fraud: would-be buyers are steered into private chats and then asked to send deposits or transfers to reserve or receive the supposed banknotes.

The damage does not end with the people who take the offer. Chetumal merchants have complained that some fake notes reach their tills as payment, leaving them with losses once the cash is identified as counterfeit. Local reports say businesses have begun scrutinizing bills more closely because of the 200-peso notes in circulation.

Knowingly passing counterfeit money also carries legal exposure. Authorities have warned that producing, distributing or using fake currency can constitute a crime, meaning that buying these packages online can end not only in a scam but in legal consequences.

Merchants and consumers are urged to be wary of offers promising large amounts of money for a fraction of their value. Anyone who receives a suspicious note should avoid putting it back into circulation and should request an inspection through the proper channels.