SA Police are warning business owners to be on the lookout for fake money after numerous incidents, with multiple reports of counterfeit $50 notes being used in August to purchase various items at service stations, fast food restaurants and hotels.

The notes are thicker in texture and can appear darker in colour.

Police urge business owners and retail staff to be vigilant when receiving cash and advise consumers to take a little extra time to check their notes when making purchases and receiving change.

Anyone who suspects they have a counterfeit note, report it to the Police Assistance Line on 131444. 

Police advise to handle the note as little as possible and store it in an envelope. 

Be prepared to tell police the time and place where you believe you were passed the fake bank note and a description of the person or people you believe passed it to you.

Business proprietors who believe the fake bank note was passed by a customer should note the person’s description and details if they leave the premises prior to police arrival. 

It would also be helpful to note any other relevant information such as description of the suspect, anyone else they were with and their vehicle.

Police recommend that anyone accepting money check the texture of the note, other in-built security features and printing.

To determine if a suspect note is counterfeit, it is best to compare it with a note that is known to be genuine.

For more information about how to detect counterfeit notes visit the Reserve Bank of Australia website.