Central Bank Declares Buying, Selling and Advertising Bank Loans Illegal

Iran's Central Bank warned in a statement issued Thursday, October 1, 2026 (9 Mehr 1405) and reported by Mehr News Agency against advertisements for granting, buying and selling bank loans circulating on social media and via text messages, describing them as attempts to defraud citizens and misuse their personal information. The statement said bank loans are extended only under rules approved by the Central Bank through the licensed banking network and cannot be bought, sold or transferred to third parties. Citing Article 15 of the executive directive on advertising by regulated entities, issued on August 29, 2026 (7 Shahrivar 1405), the Central Bank banned all advertising related to buying and selling loan facilities, loan eligibility privileges, bank deposits and account rentals, and said it is pursuing legal action against violators.