Counterfeit Bank Notes Circulating Across Mid-Cornwall

The next time someone pays with a high value note and asks for change, it might be worth a closer look.

St Austell Police say they are seeing a rise in counterfeit bank notes being used and bought across Mid-Cornwall and the surrounding areas, often to pay for high value items.

The fake notes have turned up through online marketplace sales, in local shops, and in pubs and licensed premises. Officers have already seized a number of them as part of an ongoing investigation.

The force says it will be working with local businesses to identify those responsible and to prevent further incidents.

How the fake notes are being used

Police have pointed to two things in particular for people to watch for.

The first is counterfeit notes mixed in with genuine cash. Officers are asking people to take a moment to check bank notes, especially higher denominations.

The second is someone spending a very small amount but paying with a high value note, then receiving genuine change in return.

What to do if you find one

Anyone who comes across suspected counterfeit cash is asked to report it to the police. Fake notes can also be handed in at the police station.

If you have information about the use or distribution of counterfeit currency, St Austell Police are asking you to get in touch and quote reference 50260121965.

The advice for everyone, whether buying or selling, is the same. Take a moment to check the cash before it changes hands.