Wiltshire Police are urging residents and businesses to remain vigilant following reports of counterfeit banknotes circulating in the region.
The warning follows incidents in which fake notes – described as completely worthless – were used to purchase high-value electrical items via online selling platforms.
Police are strongly advising people to use online banking or secure electronic payment methods when buying or selling high-value goods on social media marketplaces. If a cash transaction is unavoidable, the following checks are recommended.
How to spot a counterfeit banknote
Feel the texture
Genuine polymer notes from the Bank of England have raised print, particularly on the words “Bank of England” and in the corners.
Check the hologram
Tilt the note. The hologram should change between the note’s value (for example “Twenty”) and the word “Pounds”.
Inspect the windows
Look for a clear, see-through window featuring a precise metallic image and the note’s value around it.
Use ultraviolet (UV) light
Under UV light, security features should become visible while the background remains non-glowing.
Check the print quality
Authentic notes have crisp, sharp detail and clean edges — they should not appear blurry or faded.
What to do if you receive a counterfeit note
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Do not re-use it – knowingly passing on a fake note is a criminal offence.
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Hand it in – take the note to your bank or nearest police station. A Retention of Counterfeit Currency form will be completed.
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Preserve the evidence – place the note in a plastic wallet or envelope to help protect fingerprints.
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Record details – make a note of any description of the person who gave it to you, vehicle details or relevant CCTV footage.
If a crime is taking place, call 999. For non-emergencies, contact police on 101. Information can also be given anonymously via CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.
For further advice, residents and businesses can contact Wiltshire Police Fraud Protect Officer Becky Grist via email at becky.grist@wiltshire.police.uk.
