Police are warning Hobart businesses to be on the lookout for counterfeit $100 notes after a spike in fakes being passed off in the Glenorchy area.
The dodgy notes are fooling some retailers at first glance, but police say they’re missing key security features that make them easy to spot once you know what to check.
“Notes feel thicker or like regular paper,” police said.
The fakes are also missing crucial elements in the clear window. Genuine notes should show the coat of arms, a lyrebird or a masked owl.
Police have identified one particular fake serial number — BB203212002 — which they say may appear on the counterfeits.
Officers are urging businesses to do quick checks on all cash. Real Australian notes are made of plastic and bounce back when crumpled, unlike the fakes.
Anyone who comes across a suspect note should contact police on 131 444. CCTV footage can also help with investigations.
“Remember – it’s an offence to possess, buy, sell and use counterfeit money,” police warned.
The latest alert comes after eight people across northern Tasmania were charged in early September over counterfeit money offences.
Some of those fake notes had the word “PROPS” printed on them.
