Alanya, Stay Alert! Critical Warning Issued

Alanya Grocers and Dealers Chamber President Süleyman Hilmi Özdemir Warns Shopkeepers About Counterfeit Money

Süleyman Hilmi Özdemir, President of the Alanya Grocers and Dealers Chamber, warned shopkeepers to be cautious as the circulation of counterfeit money may increase during the tourism season. Özdemir noted that with the rise in tourist numbers especially in summer, many counterfeit banknotes are entering the market. “We are currently receiving many reports from our shopkeeper friends. Counterfeit money is seriously widespread right now. Extra attention must be paid particularly to large banknotes like 200 Turkish Lira, 100 US Dollars, and 50 and 100 Euros,” he said.

“THERE IS A RISK OF LOSING A DAY’S EARNINGS”

Özdemir reminded that grocers do not operate with high profit margins. “If they receive counterfeit 100 Dollar or 100 Euro notes, their entire day’s earnings are lost. Large foreign currency notes do not often come into a grocer’s hands. Even I personally try to avoid taking large Euro and Dollar bills. Because nowadays, counterfeit notes are so well made that they can even pass some machines. Therefore, our tradespeople must be very careful,” he said.

“USE UV LIGHT AND TEST PENS”

Özdemir also gave advice on how to detect counterfeit money. “Every business should definitely have a UV light. They should also get at least one counterfeit money detection pen. These tools make it easy to check banknotes. If they cannot test, I recommend not accepting large banknotes at all. This warning is not only for grocers but for all shopkeepers in Alanya,” he stated.

— Alkın BİRİCİK