Retailers and consumers can protect themselves from counterfeit money by learning how to check the security features of genuine UK banknotes. The Bank of England recommends a simple “look, feel and check” approach, helping people quickly identify whether a note is authentic before accepting or using it.
Counterfeit banknotes remain rare, but businesses that handle cash need effective checks to avoid losses. Staff who accept payments should understand the main security features of UK banknotes and know what action to take if they suspect a note is fake.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
The Bank of England says checking several features together is the best way to confirm a banknote is genuine. No single test should be relied on by itself.
Use the look, feel and check method
The Bank of England’s guidance is based on three simple steps: look, feel and check.
Feel the banknote:
Genuine polymer banknotes have raised print that can be felt by touch. This includes features such as the words “Bank of England” and parts of the main design on the front of the note.
Look at the details:
Real UK banknotes contain clear, sharp designs and security features that are difficult to reproduce. These include transparent windows, detailed patterns and metallic elements.
Tilt the note:
Some security features change when the banknote is moved. Depending on the denomination, parts of the design may change colour or create movement effects when viewed from different angles.
Retailers can use these simple checks as part of staff training, helping employees recognise genuine notes during everyday transactions.
Check features by denomination
UK banknotes have different security features depending on their value. The Bank of England provides guidance for each denomination, including the £5, £10, £20 and £50 polymer notes currently in circulation.
Key features to check include:
- Raised print that can be felt with your fingers.
- Transparent windows that form part of the polymer design.
- Metallic features that change appearance when the note is tilted.
- Detailed printing that should appear sharp and clear.
- Colour-changing elements included on some denominations.
When checking a note, retailers and consumers should compare it with a banknote known to be genuine if they are unsure. Looking at several features together makes it easier to spot a suspicious note.
The Bank of England advises against relying only on tools such as counterfeit detection pens. A proper check involves examining the security features built into the banknote itself.
What to do if a note seems fake
A counterfeit banknote has no value and cannot be exchanged for genuine money. The Bank of England does not reimburse people who receive counterfeit notes.
If a retailer or consumer suspects a banknote is fake, they should not try to spend it. The note should be handed to the police, who will complete the necessary reporting process and arrange for the suspected counterfeit to be examined.
The Bank of England also warns people not to buy counterfeit banknotes advertised online. Some online listings claiming to sell fake notes are scams designed to deceive buyers.
Reporting suspected counterfeit activity helps police investigate those involved in producing or distributing fake money.
For retailers, training staff to recognise genuine UK banknotes remains one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of accepting counterfeit cash.
