How to spot new flood of counterfeit $50 and $100 notes

South Australians are being urged to be vigilant after a surge in counterfeit money being used at businesses across the state.

Police said there had been 207 reported cases of fake notes being circulated in August and September, warning the true number could be higher due to under-reporting by businesses or staff who failed to recognise the forgeries.

Offenders have most commonly been using fake $50 and $100 bills to make small purchases and receive genuine money in return.

Police Acting Assistant Commissioner John DeCandia outlined the key signs to look out for when checking notes.

“Counterfeit notes often display telltale signs such as repeat serial numbers, misspelled words, incorrect fonts, and missing security features or images,” he said.

“Counterfeit notes can also have a different texture and feel to a genuine note.”

Images released by police show several examples of altered or missing security features.

One $100 bill had no clear window in the corner, while a $50 note displayed no serial number or contained words under the Southern Cross on its window.

Another pair of $50 bills were printed with the same serial number.

“If you suspect a note may be counterfeit, place the note in an envelope and minimise handling of the note, then report it at their nearest police station,” Asst Comm DeCandia said.

Suspected fake notes are sent to the Australian Federal Police for testing.

“If the note is found to be counterfeit, it will not be returned; genuine notes will be returned to the owner. Reviewing CCTV footage from businesses and surrounding areas can greatly assist police in identifying suspects,” a SA Police statement said.

Two men have been arrested in recent months in connection with counterfeit currency.

In May, a Glenside business owner spotted suspicious behaviour on CCTV and reported it to police. A 30-year-old Heathpool man was later arrested and allegedly found with 60 counterfeit $100 bills in his bedroom.

He was charged with deception, theft and unlawful possession, granted bail, and is due to appear in court on November 25.

In another case, a 29-year-old man was arrested after allegedly attempting to flee police in a stolen black Holden.

Officers found nearly $12,000 in fake $50 and $100 notes.

He was charged with multiple offences, including illegal use of a motor vehicle, and was refused bail ahead of his October 15 court appearance.

“Unfortunately, some people in our community take advantage of others for their own personal greed, gain and satisfaction,” Asst Comm DeCandia said.

“Crooks are always looking for opportunities to scam someone – and that’s exactly what they are doing now.”

Police said further charges may be laid as investigations continue.

“Reporting suspected counterfeit notes helps police track trends, identify suspects, and prevent further incidents,” SA Police said.

“We urge you not to dispose of or return suspected counterfeit notes to circulation, but to report them promptly to police. Knowingly putting counterfeit notes back into circulation is an offence.”