It is an offence to keep or pass on fake bank notes, police warn

In the run up to Christmas and the increased number of shoppers, police have advised local business people, staff and members of the public to be vigilant and take a few minutes to check notes carefully before accepting them and always report any suspicious incidents to police.
By The Newsroom
Published 14th Nov 2012, 23:01 BST

It is a criminal offence to try to pass or keep a bank note that you either know or suspect to be counterfeit.

If you inadvertently receive a note that you believe to be counterfeit, you should take it to the nearest police station.

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There are a number of steps, which can be taken to raise awareness amongst retailers and customers, and also to deter criminals:

- display clear warning signs stating: - Counterfeit currency checks will be carried out

- ensure store staff are aware how to examine notes

- have a policy for your staff to follow on discovery of a counterfeit note. This should include the retention of the note and contacting the police, with a description of the person passing the suspect banknote.

- ensure there are good lighting conditions at cash points.

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Genuine notes can be recognised by the following observations:

- does the main printing feel raised?

- can you see a bold and clear watermark when the note is held up to the light?

- does the note feel crisp and not limp, waxy or shiny?

- is the print clear, sharp and well defined?

- are the colours clear and distinct? Compare the suspect note against a note which is known to be genuine

- is the security thread continuous when the note is held up to the light?