Counterfeit Cash Alert: Thirroul Businesses on High Alert
Business owners in Thirroul, Illawarra, are on high alert after a counterfeit $100 note was discovered at Blessed Bowls, an acai shop. The staff member who found it described it as feeling 'plasticky' and noticed some red flags upon closer inspection.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) provides guidelines to help identify genuine currency, which includes checking the special plastic material, Australian Coat of Arms, slightly raised printing, seven-pointed star inside a circle, background printing distortions, clear window, and UV light visibility.
Since Blessed Bowls' warning, other neighbouring businesses have reported similar encounters. Local authorities are urging business owners to remain vigilant and follow the RBA's tips to spot counterfeit notes.
The police warn that it is an offence to knowingly possess or pass counterfeit notes, with no financial reimbursement for victims. Business owners absorb the entire loss, which can be a significant burden for small operations.