POLICE are warning businesses to be vigilant following reports of forged £20 and £50 notes being passed across Cumbria.
At last 10 businesses, including pubs, shops and high street chains, have reported having been targeted in May.
Reports are of forged Scottish £20 and £50 notes, although Cumbria Police warn Irish and English denominations should also be checked with caution.
Claire Stevens, crime prevention officer, said: "We hope by highlighting these incidents that businesses will take heed in checking any £20 and £50 notes that they receive.
"Our advice is simple: If you are in any doubt, do not accept the tender and ask for other means of payment."
Anyone with information about counterfeit money in Cumbria is urged to call police on 101, or email 101@cumbria.police.uk.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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