An Garda Síochána has issued a new warning over fake 'prop money' or 'movie money' in circulation.

The force has issued a joint statement with the Office of the Revenue Commissioners to highlight that there has been a "significant increase" in the detection of novelty Euro notes.

These notes often bear a strong resemblance to genuine Euro notes - however they do not contain the security features.

Revenue officers have seized notes in varying denominations worth €430,895 in recent mail centre detections.

"We advise businesses and members of the public who deal in cash to be aware that such notes are in circulation and take appropriate precautionary measures.

A counterfeit Euro note | Image: Facebook/An Garda Síochána

"Business owners should ensure staff members handling cash are alerted to watch out for these fraudulent notes", the Gardaí say.

The use of fraudulent currency when trying to purchase goods or services is an offence under the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act and carries a potential prison sentence of 10 years.

Any incidents of persons trying to pay with prop money should be reported to Gardaí immediately.

A counterfeit Euro note | Image: Facebook/An Garda Síochána

Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan is from the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau.

"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.

"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".