Counterfeit $100 notes with large pink Chinese characters on them are being peddled around Darwin pubs.
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Glenn Leafe said seven incidents have been reported since Sunday, mostly involving the same man and woman.
Under the scam, the couple has been using fake $100 notes to buy alcohol and cigarettes at pubs.
"The pair collects change from the transaction before quickly leaving the scene," he said on Tuesday.
"Around 9.30pm yesterday, the pair attended a licensed premises in Marrara and attempted to exchange a counterfeit note for goods. Upon examining the note staff challenged the pair who fled the store."
Police are reviewing CCTV security footage of the incidents.
"This is a reminder for businesses to be vigilant when accepting cash transactions, in particular transactions involving $100 notes," Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Leafe said.
"In these incidents the notes have been marked with Asian characters."
The Chinese translation of the text reads "Exercise coupon. SAMPLE. For the sole purpose of exercise - circulation not allowed".
The notes were marketed on Ebay for $15 each and are described as teaching aides for Chinese bank cashiers learning to deal with foreign currency.
"These notes are training money only. I accept no responsibility for the unlawful use of this item," the Ebay seller from Newcastle posted.
