Hundreds of dollars of fake US currency are being circulated throughout the Island and Police are warning the public to be watchful and avoid becoming a victim of fraud.

According to Det. Insp. Charlene Thompson of the Commercial Crime Unit, it's mostly a spate of US $20 bills that have been turning up recently.

Police believe it is primarily young people that are brandishing the notes — which appeared authentic-looking when inspected by The Royal Gazette.

The notes in question bear the following two serial numbers: EA92262589E and EC60341068D. If you come across these notes, you are asked to contact Police immediately and take note of the person who gave it to you.

Det. Insp. Thompson said: "We are currently investigating a large quantity of US $20 notes that are currently circulating around the Island.

"So far early indications are that these notes are being passed at various businesses by teenagers and we are asking merchants to be on the lookout.

"We are also asking parents and guardians to pay attention to their children if they have noticed recently that their children have had US currency in their possession or have been spending US currency.

"If you have noticed it, please ask questions and check the notes. If you are in any doubt you can contact the Fraud Unit at 299-4330."

Police say these types of crimes are taken very seriously and can result in jail time, as it can amount to adverse affects on the economy — which everyone feels.

So far, various types of businesses around the Island have come across the fake money, turning up in registers and bank bags, Police said.

Asked how the notes were being produced, Det. Insp. Thompson explained: "The notes are not of high quality — not the best we have seen."

She speculated they were printed using an inkjet printer and made from thin paper.

"I have to give credit to the merchants so far that have come across these notes, who have detected them fairly quickly.

"But in certain situations such as in dim lighting, they can possibly pass."

As Internet fraud scams known as 'Phishing' become more prevalent, Det. Insp. Thompson also reminded the public if it looks too good to be true — it is.

"If members of the public are receiving e-mails," Det. Insp. Thompson added, "text messages, faxes, or letters, requesting financial information such as social security numbers, or personal financial details appearing to be from a bank, you should not give out any information."

Members of the public with concerns can contact the main Police number at 295-0011 or e-mail fraud[AT]bps.bm with suspect e-mails.