How can I spot counterfeit stamps?
Counterfeit stamps vary in quality and type and may be difficult to identify. Some may have one or more of the following characteristics :
- Cost less than the official Royal Mail prices (see the official prices for stamps on our website)
- Security ovals on each side of the stamp are missing or uneven
- Unusual colourings
- Uneven borders
- An unusually shiny surface
- Stamps may be stuck on to what appears to be greaseproof paper
- Sheets of stamps other than 25, 50, 100. Majority of the stamps sold by Royal Mail are in these quantities
- Damaged or removed security ovals on either side.
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How can I spot counterfeit stamps advertised on a website?
It's not possible to tell if stamps are genuine or not from pictures on a website, usually because the stamps displayed might not be those you receive and it's hard to tell from the photos.
Wherever possible buy your stamps from a Royal Mail reputable retailer such as the Post Office, reputable High Street Retailers or the Royal Mail website. If you suspect you have seen of been a victim of stamp fraud please complete our online form so that we can gather information on any fraudsters and determine a course of action.
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How can I spot used stamps?
Used stamps might have some of the features below:
- Cost less than the official Royal Mail prices
- Fainter and inconsistent in colour
- Dull or non-existent iridescent overprint (the shiny text across the stamp and Queen's head)
- Roughened or damaged surface
- Faint cancellation marks across the surface of the stamp
- Old envelope or backing paper still attached to the stamp
- Sold ungummed or stuck onto plain backing paper without the Royal Mail security print
- Damaged or removed security ovals on either side
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What should I do if I see suspected stamp fraud?
To report suspected stamp fraud please contact us online here. We won't be able to comment or respond on cases reported to Royal Mail. Royal Mail will examine the information you provide and will assess viable lines of enquiry to investigate and take action.
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Knowingly using or distributing counterfeit stamps is illegal
It is illegal to knowingly use counterfeit or re-used stamps to avoid paying Royal Mail the full amount required for the postal service received.
Fraudulent activity includes:
- Knowingly reusing or selling used stamps for postage, whether they have had cancellation marks and envelope removed or not
- Knowingly possessing, selling or using counterfeit stamps as a means of postage
- Importing, distributing, selling or otherwise assisting in the sale of counterfeit stamp
It is no protection for sellers of fake stamps to include a disclaimer such as "not for re-use" when selling used or counterfeit stamps. These sellers are still deemed to be committing fraud and/or counterfeiting if their intention is to distribute or sell fake stamps for use as a means of postage.
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More information
GOV.UK - Alert for charities - fundraising and postal stamp fraud
Fundraising Regulator - Old stamps, new tricks - how avoid stamp fraud
ThirdSector - Charity Commission issues alert on stamp fraud