A recent TikTok post by user Mamafeu, uploaded on October 21, 2026, claims to show new Cameroonian banknotes with denominations ranging from 25 to 400 CFA francs. The post, which has been viewed by many, includes a 2-minute and 14-second video where the user claims that the new banknotes are already in circulation. The video also features an image with different colored banknotes and motifs from the Banque des États de l’Afrique Centrale (BEAC), with amounts ranging from 25 Fcfa to 400 francs CFA.
PesaCheck, a fact-checking organization, examined the post and found it to be false. An image search on Yandex and Google using keywords related to the new banknotes did not yield any credible results. Further analysis using Sealed Rose, an image decryption tool, revealed that the photograph was generated 82.9% by artificial intelligence (AI). Another AI detection tool, thrutscan.com, confirmed this with a 99% probability. The image's brightness and slightly blurry motifs next to the amounts on the supposed banknotes are details that suggest the use of AI.
PesaCheck contacted Serge Sambot, Head of Communication and Linguistic Translation at BEAC, who formally denied the claim. Sambot stated that the bank has not issued small denomination banknotes and that only known coins are still in circulation. An examination of BEAC's digital platforms did not reveal any information supporting the claim made by the TikTok user.
The BEAC, which manages the common currency of six Central African countries, including Cameroon, recently announced the withdrawal of certain old coins from circulation, effective November 1, 2026. The announcement sparked controversy due to a lack of public understanding. The organization has not issued any new banknotes with denominations ranging from 25 to 400 CFA francs.
The image circulating on TikTok appears to be a work of fiction, likely created using AI. The use of AI-generated images to spread misinformation has become a growing concern. PesaCheck's findings highlight the importance of verifying information, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like currency and finance.
The debunking of this fake image is a reminder to be cautious when sharing or believing information found online. It is essential to verify information through reputable sources before accepting it as true. In this case, the TikTok user's claim was thoroughly investigated, and the evidence confirmed that it was false.
The incident also underscores the need for effective communication from financial institutions and government agencies to prevent the spread of misinformation. Clear and timely information can help prevent confusion and panic among the public.
Key points
- The image of new Cameroonian banknotes circulating on TikTok is fake and was generated using artificial intelligence.
- BEAC has not issued new banknotes with denominations ranging from 25 to 400 CFA francs.
- The organization has only withdrawn certain old coins from circulation, effective November 1, 2026.
