Check your bank notes! Police warn of spike in fake cash circulating the Riverina

POLICE are urging Riverina residents and businesses to be on alert following a spike in counterfeit money being detected across the region. 

The imitation notes, which are not legal tender and hold no monetary value, have been increasingly reported to local authorities in recent weeks.

Police say the fake cash is often used in low-light or high-traffic situations, where busy staff may not have time to properly check each note.

“Be vigilant and check notes thoroughly before accepting them for purchase,” a police spokesperson said.

“If there is any doubt and the person presenting the note becomes confrontational, please call police to attend and assist.”

Anyone who comes into contact with suspected counterfeit currency is advised to handle it as little as possible, place it in an envelope, and take it to their nearest police station.

Key signs a banknote may be counterfeit:

• Paper feel – Australian banknotes are made from polymer (plastic), not paper
• Faulty clear window – The transparent window (bottom left) may be blacked out or poorly replicated
• “Motion picture use only” – Some fake notes are movie props and will be marked accordingly
• Mismatched serial numbers – Legitimate banknotes always have matching serial numbers in both corners

If you suspect you’ve been given counterfeit money or have information that could assist police, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.