BUSINESSES in Powys are being targeted in a fake money scam, police are warning.

Dyfed-Powys Police is appealing for information which could help their investigation in to the incidents. So far they have linked 17 reports, but suspect there could be more victims.

The offenders are targeting local shops or pubs and paying for a very low value item with a counterfeit £50 note. Some appear to be English notes and some Scottish. The notes are very good forgeries and do not show up as fake on UV tests.

There has also been one report of a counterfeit £20 being used.

The group of around four scammers are male and act either alone or in pairs. They are described as having Irish accents.

Anyone who has any information, or believes they have been a victim, is urged to contact PC Hannah Thrower at Newtown Police Station.

You can report information online at: http://bit.ly/dppReportOnline, by email at: contactcentre@dyfed-powys.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.