Fake £20 notes continue to plague city

A sharp increase in fake notes being used by crooks has led police to issue advice on counterfeit cash.

It is being passed to businesses for goods or services – such as fast-food outlets, convenience stores and petrol stations – and used in payment for items on online selling sites.

Forged twenty–pound notes are the most common locally and police believe that some of these are now being used unintentionally.

Detective Sgt Emma Ward, from the force’s Economic Crime Unit explained, “With people using cash less frequently, they may not spot a fake or know what to look out for, so they could unknowingly attempt to pass one on.” 

However, officers have also marked a trend that shows criminals are likely to be behind the use of dodgy notes when high value items on selling sites such as Facebook Marketplace are paid for using counterfeit currency. 

When it’s discovered that the notes are fake, the buyer can no longer be found or reached, DS Ward added.

“It tends to be high value items like games consoles, VR headsets or jewellery but there have also been vehicle purchases reported. Our message is to be cautious of any cash payment you receive, and check notes carefully. We don’t want to see anyone out of pocket and the reality is that counterfeit notes are worthless.”

There are security markers on each denomination of banknote, but the guide below focuses on a twenty-pound note.

1. Tilt the hologram below the lighthouse – the words change between ‘Twenty’ and ‘Pounds’

2. Look at the metallic image of the lighthouse – it should be blue and gold on one side, silver on the other

3. Feel for raised print – for example on the words ‘Bank of England’

4. Feel for the braille – there should be three clusters of raised dots  

5. Look at the print quality – lines and colours are sharp, clear and free of smudges or blurred lines.

6. Large see through window with a clearly defined portrait of the monarch 

7. Under ultra-violet light the number ‘20’ appears in red and green on the front of the note.

DS Ward explained that it’s an offence to knowingly pass on a counterfeit note and advised on what to do if you have information.

 “Using or producing fake notes can carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years.

“If you know about someone making, selling or using fake notes, call us, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Image shows real £20 notes on the left with fake versions on the right.