Counterfeit 50-euro notes reported in Kühlungsborn and Erfurt

Authorities in Germany are investigating the circulation of counterfeit 50-euro banknotes in multiple regions. In the Rostock district, specifically in Kühlungsborn, several restaurateurs reported discovering suspicious notes during cash reconciliations. Some business owners believe the counterfeit currency may have been introduced during a recent village festival. Local police have also noted attempts to deposit these fake notes into ATMs.

The counterfeit bills are described as being larger than genuine 50-euro notes and lack a watermark. In Erfurt, police responded to a report from a snack bar in the Krämpfervorstadt district where an unknown individual used a fake 50-euro note to pay for an order.

Police are advising the public to carefully inspect both received banknotes and change. They urge anyone who discovers suspicious currency not to pass it on, but to report it to the authorities immediately. Using cashless payment methods is also recommended to avoid the risk of receiving counterfeit change.