Investigation Launched into Alleged Counterfeit Stamps Scandal – East Lothian Courier

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Royal Mail barcoded stamps issues
2. Royal Mail stamp barcode problems

Public complaints have surfaced regarding the imposition of £5 penalties for collecting post with allegedly counterfeit stamps, as reported by the Daily Telegraph. The issue arose after the postal service transitioned to a new barcoded system last July. Postmasters have raised concerns that stamps purchased directly from Royal Mail are being mistakenly flagged as fake. In response, Post Office minister Kevin Hollinrake held a meeting with Royal Mail CEO Martin Seidenberg to address the issue. Royal Mail has assured customers of secure processes and the use of specialist equipment to verify stamp authenticity. Customers are advised to purchase stamps from reputable sources and report any suspicious stamps for investigation.

Postal Service Controversy Sparks Complaints from Public

Members of the public in East Lothian have raised concerns over having to pay £5 penalties to collect post due to counterfeit stamps, as reported by the Daily Telegraph.

The issue came to light following the postal service’s transition to a new barcoded system last July, which has caused confusion and frustration among residents.

According to postmasters, the allegedly fake stamps were purchased directly from Royal Mail, leading to fears that they are being wrongly identified as counterfeit.

Christmas Card Delivery Woes

In December, many people experienced undelivered Christmas cards, adding to the growing dissatisfaction with the postal service in the region.

Post Office minister Kevin Hollinrake recently met with Royal Mail chief executive Martin Seidenberg to address the situation and find a solution to the ongoing stamp controversy.

Speaking to the Telegraph, Mr Hollinrake stated that Royal Mail is conducting an investigation and collaborating with the Post Office and other retailers to identify the source of the problem.

Royal Mail’s Response

Despite the accusations of counterfeit stamps, Royal Mail has defended its processes, emphasizing the security measures in place to verify the authenticity of stamps.

The postal service utilizes specialist equipment to assess whether a stamp is genuine, with most stamps being verified using scanning devices at sorting offices.

Royal Mail reassures customers that every barcode is unique, allowing them to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit stamps, as well as detect any previously used stamps.

Customer Guidance and Reporting

To instill confidence in customers, Royal Mail advises purchasing stamps from Post Offices and reputable retailers, cautioning against buying stamps online from unauthorized sources.

The company’s website provides guidance on spotting counterfeit or used stamps and encourages customers to report any suspicious stamps for further investigation.

Royal Mail works diligently to remove counterfeit stamps from circulation, monitoring for suspicious activity and collaborating with retailers and law enforcement agencies to combat stamp fraud.

Post Office’s Response

A Post Office spokesman emphasized that stamps are sourced directly from Royal Mail’s secure printers, and any allegations of fake stamps purchased at Post Offices are taken seriously.

Customers who suspect fake stamps are urged to provide an itemized receipt for investigation, as the implication of such allegations involves postmasters or staff selling counterfeit stamps.

The recent meeting between postal affairs minister Kevin Hollinrake and Royal Mail has reinforced their commitment to addressing the issue of counterfeit stamps and prosecuting those responsible.

As the investigation into the counterfeit stamp issue continues, residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious stamps to Royal Mail for further action.