16/07/2026
Fake bank notes are circulating again. Here in store and any money collected in the vans will be subject to checks before any parts are handed over. Notes have been reported as close as Ystrad Mynach recently. See below a statement from Dyfed-Powys police.
Police have issued advice, after reports of a flurry of fake £20 notes in circulation in Builth Wells.
Dyfed-Powys Police has urged people be vigilant and check every note carefully,
Here’s what to look out for:
Real – the word “twenty” in the oval hologram will change to the word “pounds” when you tilt the banknote from side to side.
Fake – the word “twenty” in the hologram does not change when you tilt it.
Real – The holographic area should appear multicoloured when it is tilted.
Fake – The holographic area appears silver when tilted.
Real – Genuine UK polymer notes have a smooth, slightly glossy feel, and raised print on areas like the words “Bank of England”.
Fake – the texture and thickness are incorrect; with the holographic patch appearing out of alignment due to it being glued down.
Watch out for ‘Prop Notes’ which have words such as ‘prop’ or ‘copy’ printed on them. You might find a foil sticker – which is meant to replicate the security holographic strip – has been used to cover the words up.
Even without the foil sticker, these ‘prop notes’ are deemed counterfeit under UK legislation.
Possessing and using counterfeit currency are serious offences which could result in a sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment and an unlimited fine.
