Counterfeit Bermuda $50 notes are currently in circulation, according to the Bermuda Police Service.

Employees are advised that if counterfeit cash is detected during a transaction, the member of staff receiving the fake money should hold on to it, note the description of the individual who tendered it and contact police immediately.

Members of the public should also take a few seconds to examine any money they may receive, especially the larger denominations.

Police stress people should check for common security features such as the paper quality and embedded BMA watermark, which is visible in light.

Anyone who may have unknowingly received counterfeit currency is encouraged to contact the nearest police station to report the matter.

It is a criminal offence to pass to another, possess, make or reproduce any counterfeit currency, punishable by up to five years in prison.

Suspicious circumstances regarding suspected counterfeit currency should be reported directly to detectives at the Criminal Investigation Department on 247-1744 or the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline 800-8477.