Australians are being warned to look out for counterfeit notes after a man was charged with multiple offences.
Tasmanian Police issued the warning after counterfeit notes were found circulating in the state’s north.
“As part of ongoing investigations into counterfeit notes circulating, late last week, police in northern Tasmania charged a 22-year-old man from Invermay with multiple counterfeit money related offences,” Detective Acting Inspector Aziz Melick said.
Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today 
“A further seven people in northern Tasmania have also been proceeded against by police in relation to counterfeit money offences in August.”
Police said the counterfeit notes circulating may appear legitimate at first glance, however some have the word “PROPS” printed on them.
“Police remind the community that it is an offence to possess, buy, sell and use counterfeit money,” Melick said.
“If you’re handling cash, please be vigilant and check notes to prevent falling victim to these offences.”
How to identify a counterfeit note
- Check both sides of the note and look for any markings, such as the word “PROPS”.
- Look to see that the security window feature is legitimate.
- Check the note for inconsistencies in thickness and colour.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) said Australian banknotes are printed on polymer, a type of plastic, and they have a distinctive feel.
A suspect banknote may feel thicker or thinner and lighter than a genuine banknote, the RBA said.
Most counterfeits are printed on paper and can be easily torn. It is difficult to start a tear along the edge of a genuine banknote.
A genuine banknote should return back to shape after it is scrunched up.
The RBA advises people who have come across a banknote that they suspect is counterfeit to:
- Handle the suspect banknote as little as possible and store it in an envelope.
- Note any relevant information, such as how it came into your possession.
- Report the matter immediately to State or Federal police.
Stream free on
