Rise in Counterfeit Bills in Hamilton; Police Issue Serious Warning to Residents and Businesses

Hamilton police are reporting an increase in counterfeit currency circulating throughout the city, noting that some of the fake bills are of such high quality that they closely resemble Canada’s real polymer banknotes.

However, these counterfeit bills lack key security features found on genuine currency. Fake $20, $50, and $100 notes have all been detected.

Police say the bills have been used not only in retail stores but also in private transactions and online marketplaces such as Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace.

Key Signs of Counterfeit Bills

• Multiple bills with identical serial numbers
• Phrases like “Prop Money” or “For Motion Picture Use”
• A holographic strip that appears glued on or can be peeled off
• Blurry, dull, or flaking print quality
• Differences in texture and thickness compared to real polymer bills

Police Recommendations

Residents are urged to carefully inspect cash during transactions and refuse any bill they suspect may be fake. Police also warn the public not to confront individuals passing counterfeit money, as those involved may not be aware that the bills are fraudulent.

Source: ctvnews.ca