Businesses are being asked to be aware of a recent increase in counterfeit notes circulating in South East Queensland, including Moreton District, Queensland Police say.
Offenders are targeting businesses, mainly fast food outlets and service stations during busy times and paying for a small purchase with a fake fifty dollar note.
Police have launched operation Oscar Commit and have a team of detectives and uniform police are currently investigating the matter.
As part of the operation police have charged a 43-year-old Kallangur man with two counts of possessing counterfeit money, uttering counterfeit money and possession of a dangerous drug. He was arrested on November 23 after allegedly been found with 290 counterfeit $50 notes. He is expected to appear at the Caboolture Magistrates Court on January 19.
Detective Senior Sergeant Anthony Green from Moreton Criminal Investigation Branch said: "Obviously this is a busy time of the year and it is easy to become a target which is unfortunate for what often is a small family business."
"We are aware people can inadvertently receive these notes in change. Check $50 notes and if you think you have been given a fake $50 note, report it to police.
"Information from the public is crucial to this investigation and I urge anyone who has further information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000," he said.
Tips to spot counterfeit notes:
1 Is it plastic: You can scrunch the banknote in your hand and a genuine banknote should spring back
2. Look for the Coat of Arms: If you hold the banknote to the light, you should see the Austalian Coast of Arms
3. Look for the star: Diamond-shaped patterns are printed inside a circle on both sides of the banknote. If you hold the banknote up to the light, the patterns should line up perfectly to form a seven-pointed star.
4. Check the clear window: It should be an integral part of the banknote not an addition.
More information on detecting counterfeit notes can be viewed on the Reserve Bank of Australia website: http://banknotes.rba.gov.au/assets/pdf/counterfeit-detection-guide.pdf.
