Sunshine Coast police have recently received a number of reports of counterfeit notes being used in the area and encourage anyone transacting in notes to be vigilant.
Residents and businesses are urged to show care when handling notes and report any suspicious circumstances as soon as possible.
If you suspect that someone is handing you counterfeit notes, you can refuse to accept it (as long as it is safe to do so).
If you come across a banknote that you suspect is counterfeit, take the following steps:
- Handle the suspect banknote as little as possible and store it in an envelope.
- Note any relevant information, such as how it came into your possession.
- Report the matter immediately to State or Federal police.
The Reserve Bank of Australia website provides advice regarding the security features of bank notes and to help identify a counterfeit note.
RBA counterfeit banknote detection guide
If you believe that you have been given a counterfeit banknote handle the banknote as little as possible and store it in an envelope, make a note of the circumstances how it came into your possession and report the matter to State or Federal police.
You are within your rights to refuse to accept a banknote if you have concerns about its validity if it is safe to do so.
For more information on identifying counterfeit notes please follow the link: https://banknotes.rba.gov.au/counterfeit-detection/counterfeit-detection-guide
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
