Staffordshire Police have received reports that counterfeit £20 notes are currently circulating in the Gnosall area, and have issued the following statement:
Please remain vigilant when handling cash. We encourage both businesses and members of the public to take extra care when accepting £20 notes.
How to protect yourself:
- Check the note carefully – feel the texture (genuine notes are printed on polymer and feel smooth and slightly slippery).
- Look for key security features, including:
- A transparent window with a portrait of the King or Queen
- A hologram that changes between “Twenty” and “Pounds”
- Raised print on areas such as the words “Bank of England”
- Be cautious of damaged or unusual-looking notes
- Use UV lights or note-checking pens/devices where available
Advice for businesses:
Train staff to recognise genuine notes and follow checking procedures. Consider displaying signage stating notes will be checked.
If a suspicious note is identified, do not return it to the passer – follow your procedures and report it.
Reporting:
If you believe you have received a counterfeit note, please report it to Police on 101 or via Action Fraud (www.actionfraud.police.uk).
If a crime is in progress, always call 999.
