Printing: Genuine banknotes are printed by the intaglio process. This places large quantities of ink on the note, giving an embossed effect when felt because of the note's thickness, particularly around the bank's crest.
Watermark: Watermarks on genuine notes, which can be viewed from either side, are incorporated during the paper manufacturing process. They have sharp lines and can only be seen under natural light, not under ultraviolet light.
Fluorescence: Genuine banknote paper does not fluoresce under ultraviolet light. Fluorescent ink is added to the banknote paper, especially where the denomination is printed and it glows brightly under ultraviolet light.
Security thread: A straight metal thread is embedded in genuine notes.
Clarity: Fine-printed lines and printed serial numbers on genuine notes are clear, sharp, continuous and well-aligned.
Quality of paper: Counterfeits are usually made of poor-quality paper, which feels smoother than the real thing.