On 2 March 2026, the Lancashire Police fraud unit warned people in Blackpool, Lancashire, about a rise in fake banknotes being used to scam local sellers and taxi drivers. Detective Sergeant David Wainwright said that counterfeit £10 and £20 notes are circulating in the community, and those who unknowingly accept them will lose their money because they cannot be paid back for the loss.
Criminals are reportedly targeting individual sellers who meet in person to hand over goods sold online. These fraudsters often use high-pressure tactics, such as rushing the sale or offering very good terms, to stop the seller from looking at the cash properly before the transaction is finished.
According to the Bank of England, there is no reimbursement for counterfeit currency, meaning businesses and residents must bear the financial cost themselves. Police are urging everyone to use the “Feel, Look, Tilt” method to check the security features on any notes they receive.
If a note does not feel right or looks suspicious, residents should trust their instincts and refuse to accept the payment. Anyone who believes they have been given counterfeit currency should report the incident to the police by calling 101.
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