Victoria Police have put out a statement, warning people in Ballarat to be extra cautious, with about 25 fake notes already reported to be in circulation.

The fake notes are made from paper and look different in the clear window.

The full Victoria Police statement can be viewed below:

“Police are warning the public about counterfeit $50 notes currently being used in the Ballarat area. 

There have been reports of about 25 notes being used over the past month at various retail stores including services stations, supermarkets, liquor stores and fast food outlets. 

They are predominantly used to purchase food, petrol and alcohol. 

The notes being circulated are made from paper and have a visual discrepancy in the appearance of the clear window. 

Police advise there are a number of ways to help generally identify counterfeit notes. 

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 but will remain scrunched. 

Any discrepancies re 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 of 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 on their arrival. 

Anyone with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to submit confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au”