ACT Policing is investigating reports about counterfeit banknotes being presented to businesses across the Territory.
Acting Detective Superintendent Jason Kennedy said the banknotes being used were quite distinctive.
“They are printed on paper, and have Chinese characters superimposed on them where the clear security window feature should be,” Acting DS Kennedy said.
“Additionally, there are no serial numbers or other security features that appear on genuine Australian currency banknotes.”
He said the fake banknotes were similar to those used in locations across Australia in 2017, and appear to be training banknotes from overseas.
Acting DS Kennedy said anyone who handled cash should be vigilant and take a moment to inspect banknotes when they received them.
“If you don’t think a banknote you’ve been presented with is genuine, then don’t accept it,” he said.
“These notes in particular are easily detected as being fake from the briefest inspection, if you take the time to look at them.”
He said anyone receiving what they believed to be a counterfeit banknote should handle it as little as possible to preserve evidence.
“Note the description of the person who gave it to you and contact police on 131 444,” Acting DS Kennedy said.
He said anyone found to be unlawfully possessing or using counterfeit currency faces imprisonment for up to 12 years.
