It was spotted on campus at the University of Wollongong early on Friday morning, with detailed inspection indicating it may be in a car park.

Officers with the Department of Primary Industries' NSW Shark Smart program have taken to Instagram to try and get the attention of students who may know the - witting or unwitting - traveller.

DPI director of fisheries research Dr Natalie Moltschaniwskyi said the pop-off satellite tag was tagged onto a 1.95m male bull shark at Evans Head on January 22 and has been tracked via satellite for the last four months.

"The tag successfully popped off the shark and washed ashore on Wednesday morning. From there, via GPS satellite tracking, we can see that the tag is most likely in a vehicle," Dr Moltschaniwskyj said.

"This person hasn't done anything wrong but we are very keen to get the tag back as it contains crucial information about the shark such as where it has been, its swimming depth and feeding behaviour.

"These tags are a great way to get a treasure trove of information without needing to catch the shark again.

"If you have it, or know someone who has it - we are keen for you to get in touch"

Approximately 850 white, tiger and bull sharks have been tagged since 2015. Currently there are three bull sharks tagged with pop-up satellite tags.

Anyone who suspects they may have the shark tag are encouraged to contact DPI Fisheries on nsw.sharkprogram@dpi.nsw.gov.au