Warning To Sellers Over Rise In Counterfeit Cash

Leicestershire Police are urging people to check bank notes when selling items online after a rise in counterfeit cash.

Fifteen incidents have been reported in the last month, including in the Lutterworth area, mainly involving high-value phones sold on Facebook Marketplace.

Officers say buyers often left before sellers realised the notes were fake, and are urging people to check money before handing goods over.

Nicole McIntyre, from the force’s Economic Crime Unit, said: “At this time of year I know people will be selling things that could be bought as a Christmas present by others.

“If you’re selling something on social media and are meeting a buyer in person, please check the bank notes you’re given. I’d encourage you to do this before handing any items over.

“Sites like eBay and Vinted also offer the seller protection and can be considered as an alternative way of selling any unwanted items.”

If you have any information about these incidents – or have been a victim yourself – then please contact police by visiting www.leics.police.uk or calling 101.