The Cobourg Police Service (CPS) is reminding local businesses and residents to remain vigilant following recent reports of counterfeit currency locally, as well as a broader trend being observed across Ontario communities.
In a recent report a resident sold an item through an online marketplace and was paid with Canadian $100 bills later determined to be counterfeit and bearing identical serial numbers. The investigation is ongoing.
CPS encourages anyone who handles cash to familiarize themselves with the security features built into Canadian banknotes and to understand what steps to take if a counterfeit bill is suspected. Common warning signs of counterfeit currency include missing or poorly imitated security features; text or images that appear fuzzy, uneven, or pixelated; and bills that feel unusually stiff, slippery, or thin.
To help identify counterfeit currency, CPS recommends using the “Feel, Look, and Flip” method recommended by the Bank of Canada.
Feel
Genuine Canadian banknotes are made of smooth, durable polymer, not paper.
Raised ink can be felt on large numbers and text, particularly on higher-denomination bills.
Look
Check serial numbers. They should not be identical on multiple bills.
Check the metallic portrait window for a clear, detailed image that matches the portrait on the bill.
Look for a sharp, transparent maple leaf window, not cloudy or printed.
Ensure colours are consistent and not faded or smudged.
Fine details should appear crisp and well-defined, not blurry.
Flip
Tilt the bill to observe colour-shifting effects in numbers and images.
Metallic elements should change colour smoothly when the bill is tilted.
If you suspect a counterfeit bill, do not return the bill to the person who provided it.
Do not argue or accuse the individual.
If it is safe to do so, note a description of the person and how the bill was received.
Handle the bill as little as possible and contact police as soon as possible.
CPS encourages businesses to train staff on recognizing counterfeit currency and to establish clear procedures for handling suspected counterfeit bills. Businesses and residents can access additional training resources through the Bank of Canada’s Employee Handbook – Canada’s New Polymer Notes, available on the Bank of Canada website.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
