If you think a UK banknote may be counterfeit, do not pass it on or try to spend it. Keep it separate and use the current guidance from the note’s issuing bank or the police.
Check several features
For Bank of England notes, compare several security features such as the window, hologram, raised print and other features described in the Bank’s current guidance. One test alone cannot prove that a note is genuine.
Do not pass it on
The Bank of England states that counterfeit notes have no value. Do not give a suspected counterfeit to another person, use it in a payment or advertise it as genuine. Follow the official route for reporting or returning it.
Record the circumstances
- Keep the note safely and avoid marking it.
- Record where and when you received it.
- Note the issuer and denomination.
- Follow the current police or issuing-bank instructions.
Read the Bank of England counterfeit-banknote guidance before taking action. This article is general information, not an authentication service.