Lancashire Police are urging residents and local businesses to remain vigilant following a spike in reports involving counterfeit currency being used across the county.
Officers have received multiple reports of victims being paid with fake notes when selling items via social media marketplace platforms, as well as incidents affecting taxi drivers, shops and tradespeople.
Recent intelligence highlights that criminals are actively targeting sellers who arrange to meet in person, often rushing the transaction or offering unusually favourable terms.
Similar warnings have been issued nationwide, advising sellers to take extra care when dealing with cash payments and to learn how to verify genuine banknotes.
Guidance from police forces recommends checking the buyer’s profile, avoiding rushed sales, and familiarising yourself with the Bank of England’s advice on identifying counterfeit notes.
Det Sgt David Wainwright from Lancashire Police's fraud unit said: "We are seeing an increase in offenders using counterfeit currency to exploit honest members of the public.
"We urge anyone selling goods or accepting cash in their day‑to‑day work, to take a moment to check any notes they are given. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts—don’t hand over goods or accept payment you’re unsure about."
Advice includes where possible, meet buyers in a well‑lit, secure location and bring another person with you; never allow yourself to be rushed into a sale; and to examine all banknotes carefully before completing a transaction.
If you believe you’ve been given counterfeit currency, report it immediately.
Anyone with information about counterfeit currency or you believe you have been targeted, contact police on 101.
In an emergency or if a crime is in progress, please call 999.
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