MORE than a dozen Lake Macquarie businesses have been stung by scammers passing counterfeit $50 notes in the past month.
The notes have been reported by 16 businesses in Swansea, Belmont, Charlestown, Kahibah, Warners Bay and Edgeworth since December 18 last year.
Lake Macquarie detectives are exploring the possibility the incidents are linked and have warned shopkeepers to be vigilant.
Anyone who receives a suspicious note is asked to contact police.
Anyone with information should phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.