🚨 COMMUNITY FRAUD ALERT 🚨

We are urging residents to remain vigilant following a recent report of fraud involving the sale of a mobile phone through Facebook Marketplace.

📱 A victim advertised an iPhone for sale online. A female buyer, believed to be from the Manchester area, attended the seller's address, inspected the phone, handed over what appeared to be cash payment, and left with the device.

💷 Upon later checking the money, the victim discovered that the £900 received consisted of counterfeit banknotes.

This serves as an important reminder for anyone buying or selling goods online to take extra precautions.

🔍 How to Spot Fake Banknotes

When accepting cash, always take a moment to check the notes carefully:

✅ Feel the note - Genuine polymer notes are printed on a special plastic material and feel crisp and smooth.

✅ Check the see-through window - Real notes have a clear window with intricate details that are difficult to replicate.

✅ Look for the hologram - The holographic image should change between the value of the note and the word "Pounds" when tilted.

✅ Examine the print quality - Genuine notes have sharp, clear printing. Blurred text, poor colours, or uneven printing can indicate a fake.

✅ Check for raised print - Certain areas of genuine notes have raised ink that can be felt by touch.

⚠️ If you are unsure about a note, do not accept it and consider requesting an alternative payment method.

🛒 Staying Safe When Buying & Selling Online

✅ Meet in a public, well-lit location where possible.

✅ Consider using a bank transfer and confirm the payment has cleared before handing over any item.

✅ If accepting cash, count and carefully check every note before the buyer leaves.

✅ Take a friend or family member with you if possible.

✅ Be cautious of buyers who appear to be rushing the transaction or discouraging you from checking payment.

✅ Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, don't proceed with the sale.

📢 Please share this warning with friends, family, and neighbours to help prevent others from becoming victims of fraud.

👮 If you believe you have received counterfeit currency or have been targeted by fraudsters, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via www.actionfraud.police.uk, and contact police if a crime has occurred.

#FraudAlert #FacebookMarketplace #StaySafeOnline #CounterfeitNotes #CommunitySafety 🚔💷📱