Section 489B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) deals with the offense of using as genuine, forged or counterfeit currency-notes or banknotes.
Using Counterfeit Currency: This section applies when a person knowingly uses forged or counterfeit currency-notes or banknotes as if they are genuine, i.e., attempting to pass them off as legitimate currency in a transaction.
Intent: The key element of this offense is knowledge — the person must know that the currency or banknotes are forged or counterfeit and yet intentionally try to use them in exchange for goods, services, or any other financial transaction.
Example: If someone tries to pay for a product or service using counterfeit money, knowing that the money is fake, they are committing an offense under Section 489B IPC.
Imprisonment: The punishment for using forged or counterfeit currency-notes or banknotes under Section 489B IPC is:
Fine: The offender may also be liable to pay a fine, or both imprisonment and fine.