Police have now received approximately 13 separate reports of counterfeit $50 notes being used in North West Tasmania since Sunday, 6 November 2016.

The notes are of poor quality, are made of paper, have no security features, no serial numbers and have Chinese writing printed on them. Police believe that the counterfeit notes have been purchased online as ‘play money’.

Various retail shops, newsagencies, supermarkets and fast food takeaway shops have been targeted across North West Tasmania including Devonport, Ulverstone, Burnie, Somerset, Wynyard and Smithton.

Business owners should be cautious and ensure that staff are alerted to check any notes that may be presented.

If anyone has any bank note in their possession that they may have concerns about the authenticity about they should immediately contact police.

Further information regarding counterfeit detection information can be found on the Reserve Bank of Australia website www.banknotes.rba.gov.au

Anyone who has information regarding the production or purchasing of counterfeit notes is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 (this can be done anonymously) or Burnie CIB on 6477 7291.