Large amount of fake $20 and $50 bills found on street in Simcoe
Police are warning residents, retailers and business owners after fake money was found on a street in Simcoe.
Norfolk County OPP are investigating after being called to a Robinson Street address on Friday evening when a large amount of counterfeit $20 and $50 bills where found on the street near Kent Street.
Police said in a release that several people picked up the fake money and warn individuals that if the money is used, you can be held responsible.
All business owners and retailers are being urged to be alert and aware when accepting denominations and to double check the currency that is being tendered, the release said.
The individuals that picked up these fake bills are also being reminded that if they are tendered to businesses as genuine, they can be held criminally responsible."
Police suggest these tips to help spot counterfeit bills:
1. Feel the note. All Canadian and US currency is produced with raised ink on the shoulders of the portrait and elsewhere on the note. Run your fingernail over the shoulders of the portrait and you'll feel the raised ink on a genuine note.
2. Look at the note. The finish on a genuine note does not scrape off and the colour does not run when it gets wet. The holographic foil strip is embedded in the note, not added as a sticker, and does not peel off.
3. Flip the note to see the features in the large window repeated in the same colours and detail on the other side. The transparent window contains a metallic portrait that matches the larger one on the face of the note and changes colour when tilted. The transparent window also contains small numbers that match the value of the note.
4. The dollar value is hidden in the frosted maple leaf in the corner. On older notes, the holographic strip contains maple leaves that change colour when the note is tilted. This strip also contains small numbers that match the value of the note.
And, if you suspect the money is fake, police say to politely refuse the bill and inform the person to check it with their bank and contact police to report possible counterfeit money.
For further information on counterfeit prevention, visit the Bank of Canada.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1 - 800 - 222 - 8477 (TIPS) or leave an anonymous online message at www.helpsolvecrime.com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.
Jennifer Moore is an editorial assistant at The Spectator in Hamilton. Reach her via email: jmoore@thespec.com