Ottawa police are investigating several incidents of what they're calling a "quick change" scam allegedly perpetrated by six different people.

These incidents occurred at local businesses between November 2012 and January 2013 and the Ottawa Police Service's investigation has found the suspects — captured on surveillance video — are targeting young inexperienced cashiers.

One of the alleged suspects is described as having tattoos on his arms, neck, face and a piercing on his neck. In another incident, a male and female are allegedly involved.

Police say these are two suspects in an alleged quick change scam that investigators say have targeted several local businesses. (Ottawa Police Service)

According to police, the "quick change" scam is accomplished by using a large bill to pay for inexpensive items and before the cashier can make change, the suspect engages him or her in a speedy series of money exchanges. In the confusion, the suspect short-changes the cashier by demanding specific amounts of change.

Police say that in some instances the suspects work in teams in which one handles the money exchange, while the second acts as a distraction to confuse the cashier even more.

Anyone with any information in relation to these incidents is asked to contact Ottawa police at 613-236-1222 or Crime Stoppers at 613-236-1222, or toll free at 1-800-222-8477.