Banknote Checking Scheme News
The run-up to Christmas is often a peak time for counterfeit activity and Bank of England have informed us that they are already starting to see signs that’s happening this year. Criminals may target temporary staff or exploit busy trading periods that can make banknote checking less thorough.
Use this quick checklist to protect your local business.
Always check the hologram change: Tilt the banknote and check the words in the hologram change between the denomination (‘Five’, ‘Ten’, ‘Twenty’, ‘Fifty’) and ‘Pounds’.
Check the see-through window: Look at the metallic image over the window. Check the foil is gold on the front of the £5 and £10, gold and blue on the front of the £20 and gold and green on the front of the £50. The foil is silver on the back of all notes.
If you use UV checks: Under UV, the denomination of the banknote will appear in bright red and green on the front of the note. As some counterfeit banknotes simulate UV, you should also check the hologram flip.
Avoid detector pens: they do not work for checking polymer banknotes.
Refresh staff training by ordering our banknote checking materials:
Physical copies of these booklets and posters, as well as deterrent stickers for shop windows
Visit the ‘Advice for Retailers and Business’ webpage for full range of training materials and other key guidance.