Moose Jaw Police Service is warning businesses and residents to carefully check banknotes this holiday season after two counterfeit $100 bills were discovered at a local business.
Police received a report Tuesday that the fake bills had been discovered and determined they were counterfeit due to noticeable defects. The investigation is ongoing.
Other police jurisdictions have also reported the circulation of counterfeit $100 bills, according to the police service.
The possession, use, and creation of counterfeit money is illegal in Canada.
Police remind the public that anyone who discovers they are in possession of counterfeit currency should report it to their local police agency.
The Bank of Canada provides guidance for businesses dealing with suspicious money. If a business suspects it is being offered a counterfeit note, staff should first assess the situation to ensure safety, then:
- Politely refuse the note and explain that it may be counterfeit
- Ask for another note and check it as well
- Advise the person to check the note with local police
- Inform local police of a possible attempt to pass suspected counterfeit money
- Be courteous, as the person in possession of the bill could be an innocent victim who does not realize the note is suspicious
If someone suspects they have received a counterfeit note, they should give it to local police. If the note is real, it will be returned. Either way, police should be informed of possible counterfeiting activity in the community, as timely reporting helps police and prosecutors bring counterfeiters to justice.
The Bank of Canada website provides detailed information on current and previous banknote series and counterfeit prevention at www.bankofcanada.ca/banknotes/bank-note-series.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or the Moose Jaw Police Service at (306) 694-7600.
