A warning has been issued to residents across Oxfordshire urging them to remain alert after officers identified counterfeit currency circulating in the Banbury area.

Thames Valley Police confirmed awareness of fraudulent banknotes being passed in the local community.

The force distributed a community safety notice on Tuesday afternoon (March 24) advising householders to maintain vigilance.

A force representative explained that local enterprises, retailers and residents should exercise caution when handling cash. The advice includes thoroughly examining any banknotes received, employing verification tools where available, and flagging any concerns or suspected forgeries via the force’s online reporting system or by telephoning 101.

Community members were encouraged to distribute the information widely to help safeguard local businesses and protect the neighbourhood from fraudulent activity.