Protect yourself from Counterfeit Fraud

Counterfeit money has been around almost as long as currency itself. So how can you help protect yourself against receiving fraudulent money? Here are a few things you should know.

How to tell if a bill is counterfeit?

There are numerous ways one can detect counterfeit money, but some of the easiest ways to identify if a bill is counterfeit include:

• Most Canadian bills have raised ink on them in a few places including the large number on the bill, the four portraits, and the word 'Canada'.
• Look at the bill from various angles - you should be able to see colours changing in some areas, like the metallic symbols and images.
• Flip the bill over and look through the transparent window – you should see the same image that is on the front of the bill.

To learn more about the security features of Canadian bills click here.

Don’t take offence

Checking monetary bills helps protect everyone. Don’t be alarmed or offended if a cashier, clerk, or bank teller examines your bills. By checking for counterfeit bills, it helps keep them out of circulation and out of your pockets.

What should you do if you think you are in possession of counterfeit bills?

If you think you are in possession of counterfeit bills, take them to your local police department. The police will inspect them for you to determine if they are counterfeit or not. If the bills are real, you will get them back.