Counterfeit Cash Scams on the Rise in Oxfordshire
Police in Oxfordshire are warning the public to be cautious of counterfeit banknotes after two incidents involving fake £20 polymer notes featuring King Charles III. The scam has reportedly occurred in Chipping Norton and Witney areas, with sellers receiving counterfeit cash while selling high-value items.
The fraudulent notes have a raised vertical holographic security strip, whereas genuine Bank of England polymer notes have a smooth strip. Another giveaway is that the majority of the fake notes had the same serial number, which is not the case for real banknotes.
Police advise sellers to request payment by bank transfer and wait until funds appear in their account before handing over the item. If cash payment is preferred, officers recommend meeting inside a bank to allow staff to check the notes and deposit them. Sellers are also warned to be alert if the buyer changes plans and sends someone else to collect the item.
Police urge sellers to inspect every note carefully and trust their instincts when dealing with suspicious transactions. They advise contacting Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 to report any incidents, providing as much information as possible about the buyer and transaction details.