COUNTERFEIT $50 notes have reportedly been circulating in the Moe area.
Residents are warned to check their notes for the word ‘PROPS’ underneath the clear window, which has been hard to pick for some in a hurry.
Police advise people should attempt to make a small tear in the note corner, and if the note tears, then their suspicions should be raised.
People can also do a scrunch test. If the counterfeit notes are made of paper, then when you scrunch the note, it won’t return to being flat.
Unlike the genuine polymer notes, the fakes are known to crumple like paper and often all of their serial numbers are identical.
Any discrepancies regarding the size of the note or with the plastic window might also help identify a counterfeit note.
You can also confirm the legitimacy of a note by comparing it to one you already have in your wallet or cash register.
Anyone who believes they may have been handed a counterfeit note is asked to retain them and hand them over to local police.
Police also encourage people to get descriptions from people who hand the notes over and any vehicles they may have travelled in.
The notes should then be placed separately in an envelope or similar so it can be handed to police.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at: www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
