The Huntsville Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police want to alert Huntsville residents that there are people in the community passing counterfeit Canadian currency.
In the past few months numerous businesses and financial institutions have reported receiving counterfeit $50.00 and $20.00 bills. These businesses are now showing losses as a result of this criminal activity.
The suspects count on people not paying close attention to the currency and the Huntsville O.P.P. is asking businesses and the general public to be aware of the quality of the money they accept or handle. Of note, the $20.00 bills feel waxy and have a “crinckle” sound to them.
Here are some tip about to spot counterfeit bills:
Polymer: Genuine bills are smooth, slick polymer, not paper.
Raised Ink: Feel the portrait, large number, and “Bank of Canada” text – they should feel raised to the touch.
Transparent Word: Feel the word “Canada” in the window; it should be slightly raised
Look (Transparent Window & Details)
Metallic Portrait: The metallic portrait in the window should match the large portrait on the front.
Small Numbers: Look at the numbers in and around the window; they should match the bill’s value and appear in reverse.
Frosted Maple Leaf: Check the frosted maple leaf window for a transparent outline and tiny numbers when held to light.
Crispness: Look for sharp, clear printing, especially fine lines and microprinting; blurry details are a red flag.
Tilt (Colour-Shifting Features)
Colour Change: Tilt the bill to see the metallic portrait and other features (like maple leaves or symbols) change colour sharply.
Mirror Image: On the back, the metallic images from the front window should appear as a mirror image in the same colours and detail.
Flip (Check Both Sides)
Match: Flip the bill over and confirm the metallic portrait and features on the back match the front details.
What to do if you find a fake
Do not use or accept it.
Report it to the police immediately.
The Huntsville OPP is committed to serving our province. If you have any information about crime in our community, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To report minor occurrences online please visit www.opp.ca/reporting. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit your information online at www.crimestoppers.com. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display, and you will remain anonymous. You will not testify in court and your information may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.00.
