Australians are being warned to keep an eye out for counterfeit money circulating around the country, after a number of fake banknotes were handed in to police in Darwin. The notes had a paper texture and the security window showed visible defects, having been glued on.
Two separate incidents of counterfeit currency were also reported in Queensland earlier this year.
As a result, police are urging the community to be vigilant of counterfeit money being distributed. Anyone who has received counterfeit money is asked to immediately contact the authorities.
There are a number of ways to check if a banknote seems real or fake, Queensland Police said.
Counterfeit notes may feel much thicker or thinner compared to a genuine banknote.
Legitimate currency should also have the Australian Coat of Arms near the top right when held up to the light.
Diamond-shaped patterns, forming a star, can also be found printed inside a circle on both sides of legitimate banknotes.
The ‘window’ on the banknote should be clear and unable to be rubbed off. The pattern in the windows can also be checked.
The black and shaded areas on the banknotes are printed with a special raised ink that can be felt with your finger.
You can also check for colour differences or blurring in the background, the thickness of the lines and more.
How often do you use cash? Do you think you could spot counterfeit notes?
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