Recent Influx of Counterfeit Currency In Guildford – New Pens Could Help Detection

Published on: 13 Aug, 2014
Updated on: 15 Aug, 2014

One of the counterfeit detecting pens in action.

An influx of counterfeit banknotes in Guildford has caused Experience Guildford, Banham Security and Surrey Police to partner up and find ways of countering the criminal threat.

The partnership is offering town centre businesses free counterfeit note pens which can quickly identify suspect looking currency before it is accepted.

In many instances, counterfeit currency is not obvious at first glance but a quick swipe of the counterfeit currency pen will confirm whether it is fraudulent. Whilst some businesses use UV scanners to check currency, the pens offer a quick and cost effective method of protecting our town.

Left to right – Holly Burchall from Banham Security, Stuart Craggs and Chris Cake from Experience Guildford

Stuart Craggs, Experience Guildford, the business improvement district representing retail and leisure businesses within Guildford town centre, said: “We try to partner with local suppliers as often as possible and were thrilled to find that Banham were happy to get involved to help keep our town centre businesses protected.

“Operations like this always work best when key stakeholders are supportive, so we are very grateful for the co operation of Surrey Police Crime Prevention and Banham’s specialist knowledge in security.”

Charles Hallatt, Banham’s chairman added: “We are proud to be working in partnership with Experience Guildford and Surrey Police on this important initiative to help prevent counterfeit currency within Guildford town centre.

“At Banham we feel it is important to offer advice and support on crime prevention measures to protect both local businesses and residents from becoming victims of crime.”

The initiative launches on Wednesday, August 13,, and all town centre businesses will be entitled to obtain a free pen. Many businesses will receive visits from the Experience Guildford town rangers and the team from Banham to offer additional advice on how to protect their business.