FAKE banknotes have been used in Lutterworth to buy items advertised for sale on social media.
Between November 8 and December 9, Leicestershire Police received 15 reports of counterfeit money being handed over by people collecting items they had agreed to buy via Facebook Marketplace.
The incidents took place in Lutterworth, Loughborough, Hinckley and Leicester – most of which involving the sale of high-value mobile phones.
In all but one of the incidents, the buyer left the location before the seller had the opportunity to check the notes that had been handed over.
Nicole McIntyre from Leicestershire Police’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.”
