Fraudsters Try To Trick Shop Workers With Fake 'Twenty Poond' Notes

In a statement issued on Wednesday 2 September, PCSO Jowan Annear, of Devon and Cornwall Police, said they'd received reports of individuals using or attempting to use the fake cash in shops and takeaways in the town centre.

He wrote: "Bodmin Police have been made aware of some counterfeit currency circulating around the town, particularly in the town centre.

"We've received reports of individuals using or attempting to use these 'Twenty Poond' notes in shops and takeaways."

The fake notes all contain identical serial numbers and are misspelt when it comes to the word 'pound'. Slight giveaway.

The serial numbers of the fake money are 'DB66 888800' and the words 'This is not legal. It is to be used for motion props' can be seen below the £20 sign.

The police statement went on: "As you can see from the attached photos, these notes are clearly fake. They are all exactly the same, with the same serial number and wording identifying it as 'toy' money."

In addition to the post, the police added: "There are also several other discrepancies and they also feel like paper and not proper money."

In response, one person wrote: "It's clever really if handed face up they look legit and says a toy on other side and probably totally legal to print them but becomes illegal when you try to sell them for other uses or spend them."

Another added: "Just checked my Nan's money, none of them are counterfeit." A third commented: "Prop money, if you get scammed with this, you deserve it."

Police are now asking shopkeepers to remain vigilant when accepting notes.

Head of Action Fraud, Pauline Smith said: "Criminals are using increasingly sophisticated networks and methods to make counterfeit notes and coins.

"If you have been passed or recover counterfeit currency, this should be reported to your local police force.

"Police are responsible for investigating the matter and they will liaise with National Counterfeit Currency Unit (aka UKNCO) at the National Crime Agency (NCA).

"Action Fraud does not deal with counterfeit currency offences or reports."