POLICE have urged people in Dumbarton to watch out for fake bank notes after reports of counterfeit money in the area.

Shopkeepers and the public are being advised to be vigilant - and to look out for the telltale signs that the fake £50 notes aren't genuine.

Sergeant Gall from Police Scotland's Safer Communities team in West Dunbartonshire said: “Please remain vigilant and take time to thoroughly check all bank notes offered as payment, particularly if they are of high value or being used to pay for minor items which will generate lots of change.

“We have received reports of fake £50 notes being used in West Dunbartonshire in the past week.

"These counterfeit notes can look very realistic at first glance – however we recommend you examine the notes for texture, watermark, the quality and sharpness of the printing, duplication of the serial number and even their size.

“Retailers can take simple steps to avoid being scammed by using items such as detector pens and UV scanners, both of which can increase the chance of identifying the note as counterfeit prior to the transaction being completed.

"If you are unsure if the note is genuine then do not accept it or get a colleague to check it.

“Anyone who deliberately uses counterfeit currency is committing a crime and we will investigate all instances reported to us."

Anyone who has concerns about counterfeit currency should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.