South West District Police have urged retailers to be vigilant following reports of counterfeit $50 notes circulating in the Bunbury area.
On Friday, November 8, police confirmed they had received a number of reports of counterfeit notes being passed to retail businesses in the area.
Businesses are encouraged to educate staff on how to detect counterfeit notes in order to avoid being left out of pocket.
If you suspect a note of being counterfeit, there are a number of key security features you can check to ensure the banknote is real.
If the note is from the first polymer series, hold it up to the light to identify a seven-pointed star and the Australian Coat of Arms and check that the clear window is part of the banknote.
If the note is from the new polymer series, tilt the note to see the bird's wings move and change colour, and the number change direction.
If you suspect a banknote is counterfeit, handle the banknote as little as possible, note any relevant information and report the matter to WA Police on 131 444.
For more information, visit www.banknotes.rba.gov.au/counterfeit-detection
