A warning has been issued about counterfeit currency after a number of sellers across Northern Ireland have been reportedly scammed with the fake notes.
Police said there have been a number of reports of the scams targeting in-person transactions across Mid Ulster, Co Tyrone, Co Fermanagh and Co Down.
The PSNI explained one of the reports involved alloy wheels and tyres which were advertised for sale.
“Arrangements were made for the buyer/s to collect the goods and pay in cash,” a PSNI spokesperson said.
“In the reports to us, all transactions involved what was believed to be euro notes.
“However, it’s only been afterwards, when the buyer is gone, and when the seller has gone to exchange these notes they’ve discovered they’ve been paid with fake counterfeit euro notes. In some cases reported, each note had the same serial number.
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“Enquiries are ongoing in relation to these reports, and if you believe you’ve also lost money this way, we’d encourage you to report it to us on 101.
“Our advice is always check that cash is legitimate before finalising the transaction. If you are unsure if the note is genuine, do not accept it. Report it to police immediately.
“Retain the notes – do not pass them on – give them to police, ideally inside a secure, sealed envelope to retain any evidence.
“Some of the ways you can check if a note is fake is, does the main printing feel raised, can you see a bold and clear watermark when the note is held up to the light, is the print clear, sharp and well defined?
“Some other things to look out for include checking if the colours are clear and distinct. Comparing a suspect note against a note which is known to be genuine is also a good way to check.”