Don't be caught out by fake £20 notes
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ADVICE about how to spot a counterfeit bank note is being circulated after several were found in the north of Scotland.
The Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC) is warning to be wary.
David MacCrimmon, the SBRC’s Serious Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Lead, has highlighted the key ways to identify a fraudulent note.
He said: "Firstly, you will be aware of the feel of the paper on which genuine cash is printed. Counterfeiters just can’t seem to get this right – it is hard to replicate.
"If a note doesn’t feel right, take a closer look. And remember that criminals will sometimes tell you that it’s "been in the wash" as an excuse.
"Next, take a look at the security features. Make sure you are familiar with the metal security strip, what does that look like?
"Look also at the print quality, the print on a genuine note will be sharp and well defined with no blurred edges.
"Look at the serial numbers, are they all the same on multiple notes tendered?
"Holograms and watermarks are also difficult to replicate, so check up against the light. Waft the note around to see the hologram interacting with movement.
"If you have an ultraviolet light you will be able to check the security paper features itself, so it is wise to invest in one. It could be a desktop UV light to keep by the cash register or some small key-rings that each member of staff can have to hand."
Polymer notes are more difficult material to replicate.
The polymer £20 banknote will be introduced early next year to go alongside £5 and £10 notes which are already in circulation.
SBRC warns that until this transition has taken place, the current £20 notes are still at risk of counterfeiting.
Any attempts of payment with fake notes should be immediately reported to police for further investigation.
