Business owners on alert as counterfeit cash spreads across the region

RICHMOND Police District are warning business owners and members of the public to be on alert for counterfeit cash which is circulating around the Northern Rivers

Officers were alerted after counterfeit $50 and $100 dollar notes were handed to businesses at Ballina. They were seized and inquiries are underway.

The Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce said some of its business have also been caught out by counterfeit notes.

The notes are often on low-quality prints and often presented during busy periods to avoid inspection.

In other instances, someone might ask for a false note to be exchanged for smaller notes.

Tips from NSW Police to spot counterfeit notes include checking the polymer plastic returns back to shape after being scrunched.

Notes also have a microprint which can be seen under a microscope.

Hold the note to the light and look for the Australian Coat of Arms.

It is generally located to the left of the clear window, or denomination numeral when looking at the front of the note.

Feel for slightly raised printing on the main design of the note and look for the seven-pointed star inside a circle

Compare the background printing – look for any distortions or less clearly defined patterns.

Check that the note has a clear window and that it has a clear printed image: $50 has the Southern Cross and the $100 has the lyrebird.

If possible, look under a UV light to locate the serial numbers.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au