Police are urging the community to stay vigilant after counterfeit $50 and $100 notes have been detected circulating, mainly in the Lismore and Ballina areas.

Officers from Richmond Police District are investigating incidents where fake notes were handed to local businesses. These counterfeit notes can be very convincing, so it’s crucial to know what to look for.

How to spot a fake note:

• Feel the note – Genuine notes are printed on polymer and are hard to tear.
• Hold to the light – Look for the Australian Coat of Arms near the clear window.
• Raised print – Real notes have slightly raised ink on the main design.
• Seven-pointed star – Visible inside a circle when held up.
• Clear window – $50 notes show the Southern Cross, $100 notes show a lyrebird.
• Background printing – Should be sharp and well-defined.
• UV check – Serial numbers glow under ultraviolet light.
• They may have the fake serial number - BB203212002 or EJ182155730.

If you suspect a counterfeit note or have information, reach out to your local police station or report it to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or online at https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/. All reports are confidential.

For more information: https://banknotes.rba.gov.au/counterfeit-detection/.