The NCA has issued retailers with detailed guidance on what action to take on the discovery of the receipt of counterfeit notes, with business owners and staff encouraged to remain vigilant against the use of fake currency.
The National Crime Agency has issued new advice for retailers in relation to counterfeit currency, with guidance on what action to take when discovering the receipt of fakes.
The information includes directions for how to respond if fraudulent notes are discovered during the payment, or if the notes are found after the crime has occurred.
“Offences in relation to counterfeit currency are dealt with by the Police and not Action Fraud,” states the document. “There are in effect two types of scenario when retailers will identify that they have received counterfeit currency.”
“A) At the time the notes is passed to them or shortly after the suspect(s) have left the venue (in Police Terms: ‘Crime in Action.’) \
“B) Later in the day when checking the till(s)/cashing up at end of day.”
For situation A, the NCA advises retailers contact the police immediately, providing the address of the premises, the type of note passed, whether the suspect is still on site, and a full description, as well as any other identifying factors, such as distinctive clothing, and the make/model of their car.
The counterfeit notes should be placed in a plastic wallet or envelope, and should be made available to the police alongside the highest quality CCTV footage of the premises and any surrounding areas.
For Situation B, retailers should take the same action, with enquiries made prior to reporting the matter to identify if possible when and where the notes were passed.
“It may be that it is a higher value note or a note not normally encountered in the area passed and as such a member of staff may upon reflection identify receipt of the note.”
Originally published on Coinslot on January 26, 2026. Republished with permission.