Police issue funny money alert after counterfeit $50 notes pop up on Tasmania’s North-West Coast

DODGY $50 notes bearing Chinese script have been popping up in Tasmania’s North-West.

DODGY $50 notes bearing Chinese script have been popping up in Tasmania’s North-West.

Police say they have received about 13 separate reports of counterfeit $50 notes being used in the region since November 6.

Detective Sergeant Paul Bryan said officers believed the notes had been bought online as play money.

“The notes are of poor quality, are made of paper, have no security features, no serial numbers and have Chinese writing printed on them,” he said in a statement.

Counterfeit notes featuring Chinese script are being circulated in Tasmania's North-West. Picture: TASMANIA POLICE

“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.”

Anyone with information about the funny money is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Burnie CIB on 6477 7291.

For more information regarding counterfeit detection, click here.

Originally published as Police issue funny money alert after counterfeit $50 notes pop up on Tasmania’s North-West Coast