Counterfeit notes warning for East Lothian shopkeepers
Police have issued a warning to shopkeepers after a spate of incidents where counterfeit banknotes were used in East Lothian.
A total of 14 counterfeit notes have been passed to a variety of retailers in Prestonpans and Tranent since 4 March.
While some have been detected before a transaction has taken place, others have been used to buy goods.
The notes were Royal Bank of Scotland £20 and £10 notes.
The £20 notes all have the same serial number, B/81 626676, while the £10 notes have the serial D/19 406339.
A Lothian and Borders Police spokesman said: "There is a significant difference in quality compared to genuine notes.
"Nonetheless they have been successfully passed on a number of occasions, and we are warning shop owners and staff to be vigilant."
He said stores should check the quality of the paper and printing, as well as the metallic security thread and watermark.
"Counterfeit banknote detection pens are available at low cost, and are easy to use," he added.
"If anyone suspects they have been handed a fake note, then they should seize it and contact the police.
"It is a criminal offence to hold or pass a note that you know to be counterfeit."