Warning to check notes as reports of counterfeit cash in Derbyshire
Businesses and private sellers are being urged to remain vigilant for counterfeit money following a number of reports across the county in recent weeks.
In some cases, businesses have been targeted, but there have also been reports from private sellers who arranged to sell items via social media or online selling platforms.
PC Louise Rodger from the Fraud Unit said:
“Businesses and sellers are encouraged to take a moment to check that they are satisfied with the look and feel of any cash they are accepting.
“The Bank of England provides a number of guides and schemes on its website to help train staff. Taking the time to understand how to check cash now could save time, money and stress in the long run.”
Checking banknotes
Always carry out a visual inspection of cash. The Bank of England provides detailed guidance on its website: How to check your banknotes | Bank of England.
When checking notes, look for the following security features:
-
The hologram image should change when the note is tilted from side to side, with the words changing from ‘five’, ‘ten’, ‘twenty’ or ‘fifty’ to ‘pounds’ and back again at the bottom of the note.
-
On £50 notes, the two gold foil squares on the front should change between a ‘50’ and a ‘£’ when tilted.
-
The metallic image over the see-through window should be a different colour depending on the value of the note, and silver on the back of all notes.
-
Raised print should be noticeable on the front of polymer notes, particularly on the words ‘Bank of England’ and around the large number.
-
Print quality should be sharp and clear, with no smudging or blurred edges. Under a magnifying glass, the value of the note can be seen written in small letters and numbers.
-
Under a good-quality ultraviolet light, the value of the note should appear in bright red and green on the front.
-
Tactile features can also help identify genuine notes. On £10, £20 and £50 notes, the value can be identified by clusters of raised dots in the top left corner:
-
£10 notes have two clusters
-
£20 notes have three clusters
-
£50 notes have four clusters
-
The £5 note does not include these dots, which helps blind and partially sighted people distinguish it from other denominations.
People attempting to use counterfeit banknotes may behave suspiciously. This can include attempting to pay large amounts using small notes, appearing nervous, or trying to rush the transaction.
Advice for payments via selling websites and social media
-
Use trusted payment platforms such as PayPal, Stripe or Square, which can offer fraud protection and chargeback handling. Always check that funds have cleared into an account using a trusted app or direct login, and do not rely on links or screenshots provided by a buyer.
-
Use the integrated payment systems offered by established platforms such as eBay, Amazon or Etsy.
-
If accepting payment by bank transfer, always confirm that the money is visible in the account via a trusted banking app or website before handing over or shipping goods.
More News From Amber Valley Info
| Confirmed case of Bird Flu - Shipley Country Park A case of Avian Influenza (bird flu) has been confirmed at Shipley Country Park. The affected bird, a Cananda Goose, was found on M read more | |
| CCTV pictures of two men released following shop theft in Belper Derbyshire police have released CCTV images of two men they would like to speak to in connection with a shoplifting read more | |
| Derbyshire Wayfarer Ranger Goes Digital Derbyshire Wayfarer Ranger tickets can now be purchased through an app, making them more convenient for bus and train users. read more | |
| Young Person Travel Discount Scheme Extended For Another Three Months Derbyshire County Council's b_line 3 card, which offers discounts for those aged from 19 up to their 22nd birth read more | |
| Care Home Sale Update Plans are being revised for the future of eight Derbyshire care homes after a planned sale fell through. read more | |
The Amber Valley Info Noticeboard
| Christmas and New Year bin collection dates Over the festive season, bin collections will operate on revised schedules. Some collections may take place up to two days earlier than u read more | |
| Launch Of WOMBLE MANIA! At the Heights of Abraham, Opened by Marcus Robertson, Son of Wombles author, Elisabeth Beresford, officially launched WOMBLE MANIA! at the Heights of Abraha read more | |
| Belper School and Sixth Form Centre Closed Today Due to a significant water leak, resulting in the water being turned off at school, we unfortunately have to close the school today. read more | |
| When you need to call 999 but can't talk When you need to call 999 but can't talk - the ‘silent solution’ can help. Press 55 on your mobile when prompted, to confirm you are in read more | |
| The opening night of the Lights of Abraham Winter Lights Trail The brand new winter lights trail, the 'Lights of Abraham' opened on Friday 22nd November at the Heights of Abraham in read more | |
