Gardaí have received reports of counterfeit notes being tendered in north Clare over the weekend.
Issuing advice to the public, Crime Prevention Officer for Clare Sergeant Triona Brooks said: “There are many security features incorporated into banknotes that make them difficult to recreate. Many of these features can be checked manually using the 3 step security check Feel-Look-Tilt test.”
Feel – Most notes are embossed, usually the writing or the logo. The note should feel crisp, not limp, waxy or shiny. Security paper and special printing processes give banknotes a unique feel.
Look – Print lines should be sharp and well defined with no blurred edges. The colours should be clear and distinct with no hazy fringes.
Tilt – Check for the watermark image and security thread. The watermark should be hardly apparent until the note is held against a bright light source.
For all bank notes, do not rely on just one feature to assess whether a note is genuine, check a few and if in doubt refer the item to your local financial institution.
What to do if you suspect you have a counterfeit banknote?
If you believe you are in possession of a suspect counterfeit note you are obliged to submit it to your local financial institution, the Gardaí, or the Central Bank’s National Analysis Centre.
