Con-artists using fake notes are targeting business people in Zimbabwe's rural areas and vendors along major highways in the country.

The conmen reportedly drive around in unregistered vehicles with fake money in US20, US50 and US100 denominations. They buy goods using counterfeit notes and get change in genuine notes, Zimbabwe's Herald Online reported on Monday.

However, not many cases have been reported amid concern that people are not aware of the scam.

Police spokesman superintendent Andrew Phiri urged the public to be on the lookout.

"It's the people's duty to ensure that they don't receive fake notes from customers or anyone they will be dealing with," he said.

He said people, especially those in business, should buy fake note detectors.

Criminal Investigations Department spokesman Detective Inspector Augustine Zimbili urged people to report the cases to the police.

Last month, some business people in and around Harare fell prey to conmen who were using counterfeit money to buy small items in order to receive change in genuine money.

In Bulawayo last year, some retailers and other businesses refused to accept high denominations following a series of fake note transactions.

Fake United States dollars believed to be from Mozambique were circulating in Mutare and surrounding areas.