Thousands of counterfeit banknotes used on film sets have been circulating for months in Europe and especially in France, fooling unsuspecting merchants.
The incident is even more worrying for the authorities. Since spring, several thousand counterfeit banknotes, mostly 20 and 50 euros, have been circulating in Europe. Despite a poor imitation, these fake denominations ordered on the Internet allow scammers to deceive the vigilance of traders.
Supposed to be used as an accessory on film sets, this “movie money” sold for less than ten euros for a hundred tickets particularly affected France. In fact, 42% of counterfeit banknotes circulating in Europe are sold in France.
Aware of the problem, the gendarmerie called on traders to be vigilant. On his Twitter account, he gives his advice on how to recognize fake tickets and avoid being scammed. In total, eight differences between the real cut and those intended for cinema are discussed.
One year imprisonment and 15,000 euro fine
First, the fake tickets have on the left the words “It is not legal. It will be used as strong props to move” (“This ticket is not legal tender. Its use is reserved for the cinema”). In addition, the signature of ECB President Mario Draghi, which can be seen under the European flag on the front, has been replaced by the words “MovieMoney”, while the reference “EYPΩ” has become “PRΩP” for “accessory”.
Among other elements that make it easier to recognize “movie money”, the serial number no longer contains the required twelve characters. The same number is also often written in different denominations, namely “MB66688880”.
Dummy banknotes, made from commercial and non-fiduciary paper, will finally be distinguished by the absence of “crunch” in management. The comfort of the touch as well as the hologram is also absent.
Making these tickets with the reference “accessory” will not be allowed. On the other hand, their use is punishable by one year in prison and a fine of 15,000 euros.