Residents and businesses in Edinburgh are being warned about a rise in counterfeit bank notes after more than £1.3million in fake Euros were recovered across Europe.
This also comes just days after were used to buy goods at shops in Midlothian. Fake Bank of Ireland notes were handed over at several businesses in Eskbank on Wednesday, 25 September.
The Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC) has issued some top tips on how people can tell the difference between genuine and fake cash.
Their serious organised crime and counter terrorism lead, David MacCrimmon, said: "Firstly, you will be aware of the feel of the paper on which genuine cash is printed, counterfeiters just can't seem to get this right, it is hard to replicate.
"Therefore if a note doesn't feel right when you touch it, then take a closer look. Criminals will sometimes ell you that it's been 'in the wash' as an excuse.
"Take a look at the security features. Make sure you are familiar with the metal security strip, what does that look like?
"Look at the print quality, the print on a genuine note will be sharp and well defined with no blurred edges. Look at the serial numbers, are they all the same on multiple notes tendered?
"Holograms and watermarks are also difficult to replicate, so check up against the light, move the note around to see the hologram interacting with movement.
"If you have an ultraviolet light you will be able to check the security paper features itself, so it is wise to invest in one, whether it be a desktop UV light one to keep by the cash point or small key-ring ones that each member of staff can have to hand."
Banks are working to introduce new polymer £20 notes early next year alongside the £5 and £10 notes already in circulation, and this should help tackle the issue of counterfeit money production.
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