Warning to businesses after 'fake' Bank of England notes found in circulation

Inverness City Centre BID said it had been made aware of reports of fake Bank of England £20 notes circulating in the city and surrounding areas.

Warning to Highland businesses after ‘fake’ Bank of England notes found in circulationInverness BID/Facebook

Businesses in Inverness and the Highlands are being warned to be vigilant over counterfeit bank notes circulating.

Inverness City Centre BID said it had been made aware of reports of fake Bank of England £20 notes circulating in the city and surrounding areas on Wednesday.

Businesses have reported the “high-quality” fake notes closely resemble genuine notes but lack certain features.

The cash can pass a casual inspection but shopkeepers and workers are being urged to check the security features of new polymer banknotes.

Fake bank notes circulating in Inverness and the Highlands.Inverness BID/Facebook

In a statement on social media, Inverness BID said: “These high-quality fake notes, with the serial number BB81 275037 (pictured), closely resemble genuine notes but lack key security features.

“The counterfeit notes can pass casual inspection but have discrepancies, including a faulty silver foil patch without the hologram image change.

“To verify authenticity, always check the security features of the new polymer banknotes.”

Businesses are being urged to “stay alert” and to report any suspicious notes to police and guidance is available on the Bank of England’s website.

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