Police are warning retailers to be vigilant after reports that fake Scottish banknotes are being used in shops nationwide.
Officers from West Yorkshire have become aware of counterfeit Clydesdale £20 notes which they believe are being used to purchase goods in stores.
Wakefield CID Police issued the warning as part of an ongoing investigation which has seen three men arrested.
Detective Sergeant Craig Twycross from Wakefield CID said “We are urging retailers to be vigilant and to take the time to check notes thoroughly. Shop staff should familiarise themselves with the security features of genuine notes, and if in doubt compare the suspect note with a note you know to be genuine.”
How to spot counterfeit notes
Neil Harris, head of unit at the National Counterfeit Currency Unit at the National Crime Agency said: “Counterfeit Clydesdale £20 notes may feature what looks like a convincing hologram, but staff should also check for the colour-changing ink used in the map of Scotland in the top left corner of the note.
“If the note is genuine, the map will change colour from purple to gold when the note is tilted, and there are also moving rings across the map. You can also feel for the raised print that appears across the note including on the name of the bank.”
You can find all the security features of the genuine Clydesdale £20 here.
Any information or incidents involving counterfeit notes should be reported to your local police force or by calling 101.
Information can also be given to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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