The Covington Police are spotting more and more counterfeit bills in the city recently, leading them to warn residents and business owners to be on the look out.

“Police have seen a higher frequency of counterfeit bills being used in Covington lately, both in stores and between private parties selling goods online and meeting in person to exchange,” a City of Covington Facebook post stated. “In general, police recommend that anyone selling to a private party via the internet (Offerup, Craigslist, Facebook) realize that they are doing so at their own risk and should take precautions to protect themselves.”

“Trust your instincts, and if you see anything strange DO NOT SELL!”

The police recommend sellers meet buyers in public locations such as a bank, a grocery store or a government office during regular business hours when others are present. Sellers should not go alone and should bring someone with them to record any information like a license plate number.

“Do not try to do your own ‘sting’ to capture someone you think is selling stolen or illegal items because the person you are meeting can be dangerous and unpredictable,” the Facebook post states.