The Huntsville OPP is warning residents and local businesses about an increase in counterfeit Canadian currency being passed in the community.
Police said that over the past few months, numerous businesses and financial institutions in Huntsville have reported receiving fake $20 and $50 bills, resulting in financial losses.
According to the OPP, suspects are relying on people not closely inspecting the money they receive, and they are urging both businesses and members of the public to pay careful attention when handling cash.
Police note that some of the counterfeit $20 bills have a waxy feel and produce a “crinkle” sound when handled, which differs from genuine polymer banknotes.
The OPP has provided several tips to help identify counterfeit bills and to use the feel, look, tilt, and flip method when checking Canadian currency:
Feel
Genuine bills are made of smooth, slick polymer, not paper.
The portrait, large number, and the words “Bank of Canada” should feel raised.
The word “Canada” in the transparent window should also feel slightly raised.
Look
The metallic portrait in the transparent window should match the main portrait on the front of the bill.
Small numbers in and around the window should match the bill’s value and appear in reverse.
The frosted maple leaf window should show a transparent outline and tiny numbers when held to the light.
Printing should be sharp and crisp, especially fine lines and microprinting. Blurry details may indicate a counterfeit.
Tilt
When tilted, metallic features should sharply change colour.
On the back of the bill, metallic images should appear as a mirror image of the front window in the same colours and detail.
Flip
When flipped over, the metallic portrait and features should match the front details.
The OPP advises anyone who believes they have received a counterfeit bill to not use or accept it and to contact police immediately.
