Detectives on the Isle of Wight are warning shoppers about an increase in the number of fake £20 notes in circulation.
During the past fortnight, police have received 15 counterfeit notes that were noticed in shops and premises in Newport, Ryde, Sandown, Ventnor, and Godshill.
Detective Sergeant Jason Bolwell of Newport CID said:
“This is a national problem, and not just specific to the Isle of Wight. These counterfeit notes can be easily identified as fakes when compared alongside a note known to be genuine. I’m asking everyone to be more vigilant when handling new £20 notes.”
Police on the Isle of Wight are advising people to make the following checks to detect counterfeit notes.
â— The watermark in addition to the Queen’s portrait. There should be a £20 symbol that contrasts with the Queen’s head (the portrait should be dark, and the £20 symbol light). The watermark can be found on the left side of the note.
â— Ensure there is raised printing, in particular the words ‘Bank of England’ across the top of the note, and to the right of the Queen’s
Portrait where there should be a series of 20s.
â— On the rear of the note, there is a dotted silver line, which when held up to the light will become a solid line.
â— The foil should be holographic, changing colour and image when you tilt it. The figure 20 will change to a £ symbol, and vice versa.
â— Under ultraviolet light, a red and yellow 20 should be visible beneath the words ‘Bank of England’.
Check more than one of these features because counterfeiters may attempt to replicate them.
Anyone with information about fake £20 notes is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Jason Bolwell at Newport CID on 0845 045 45 45, or call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Image: Thunderchild
