Red Deer RCMP are warning business people to watch for bogus American bills.
Numerous businesses have complained of accepting counterfeit currency in $20, $50 and $100 denominations, with the fraud undiscovered until bank deposits are made. RCMP say the bills all have identical serial numbers, reversed colours (green where they should be white and vice versa) and a different “feel” from legal bills.
To ensure bills are legitimate, they advise merchants to tilt the bill to see its hologram, matching the number within to the denomination, look through the bill for the many security features, check serial numbers since no two are alike, and ensure colour is consistent.
If any bill looks suspicious, merchants should request another bill or other form of payment and report the incident to police at 403-343-5575.
More information about currency and counterfeiting is available online at www.bankofcanada.ca.