Increase in Counterfeit Money Reported in North Bay
The North Bay Police Service (NBPS) is advising the public and local businesses to be vigilant following an increase in counterfeit Canadian currency in the community.
Over the holiday season, local retailers have reported receiving counterfeit $50 bills, some with the serial number AHU5885903. The bills seized in the investigation resemble the polymer $50 bill but are slightly faded, and the raised Braille is only printed, not embossed. Similar counterfeit bills have also been reported in other jurisdictions across the province.
"Retailers play an important role in keeping our community safe. Familiarize yourself with how to identify counterfeit bills and always carefully check all cash received," encourages A/Insp. Cook. "If a bill seems suspicious, do not accept it, remain calm with the customer, then report it to the police."
What to do if you encounter a counterfeit bill:
- Do not accept the bill.
- Avoid accusing or confronting the customer.
- Recommend the customer take the bill to the NBPS for verification.
- After the customer leaves, call police with as much information as possible: date, time, value of the bill, description of inconsistencies, and any details about the customer.
- If you’ve already accepted a counterfeit bill, report it immediately to NBPS.
Counterfeit Prevention:
Canadian bank notes include multiple built-in security features to help identify counterfeits. For additional resources and free training materials, visit the Bank of Canada website at: https://www.bankofcanada.ca/banknotes/counterfeit-prevention/
