Business owners on alert for new types of counterfeit notes during the holidays

POLICE and representatives from Northern Rivers business chambers are warning the public to be on alert for new types of counterfeit cash during the Christmas and holiday period.

Since September, counterfeit notes have been reported at Ballina, Byron Bay and Mullumbimby.

It is usually a fake $50 or $100 note, while $20 notes have now also been reported.

“It popped up at the farmers markets. I’d never seen a fake $20 note, but I’m told it was crunchy and obvious once they had a closer look at it,” Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce executive Janelle Stanford said.

“These things are more prevalent around Christmas time and hopefully it’s on everyone’s radar now.

“We spoke to police about it, and they’ve urged businesses and shop owners to be vigilant.”

Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce previously posted an alert after some of its members were caught out, while the Coffs-Clarence Police District also issued warnings.

There were widespread reports of incidents in South Australia and other regional parts of NSW, including Tamworth and Wagga Wagga.

A string of retail stores in the Ballina CBD have been on alert since the notes were first reported three months ago.

Some concerns included whether businesses would be reimbursed if they were left with one of the notes.

They also said many younger or part-time staff would not know how to identify a fake without clearer information.

Tips on what to do after already accepting a note are to handle it as little as possible.

Business owners should place the note in an envelope and contact local police or the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Tips to spot fake notes include checking the polymer plastic returns to shape after being scrunched, feeling for raised printing, and holding the note to the light to see the Australian Coat of Arms.

Newer $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 notes include a top-to-bottom flying bird that moves and changes colour as you tilt the note.

Genuine $50 notes, which are most commonly used as fakes, feature the Southern Cross in the clear window, while $100 notes show a lyrebird.

Anyone who comes into contact with a counterfeit note should phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.