Businesses and members of the public are advised to take precautionary measures.
An Garda Síochána and the Office of the Revenue Commissioners have issued a warning following an increase in the detection of novelty Euro notes.
Gardaí warned the notes are often marked “movie money” or “prop money” but they’re very similar to genuine currency, minus the security features.
Businesses and members of the public are advised to be aware these fraudulent notes are in circulation and to take appropriate precautionary measures.
In recent weeks, a number of notes representing a value of €430,895 have been seized by revenue officials and there’s thought to be even more circulating.
Gardaí have called on the public to report any incidences of people attempting to pay with “movie money”.
“People need to be aware that such notes exist and at busy times, especially late at night, they need to exercise a little care and attention,” Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan of the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau said.
“These notes are easily identifiable if precautionary checks are made. Also people who try to tender such notes as real face prosecution, a possible prison sentence and a conviction, which is for life.
“Such convictions have serious ramifications if one wanted to travel, to work in certain sectors and it can affect their credit rating.”
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