Hold onto your wallets, Ottawa! It seems that the counterfeit game is strong in the capital, with reports surfacing about $100 bills that are more fake than a reality TV star’s personality! The Ottawa Police Service is sending out a warning, and you won’t want to ignore it.
The Great Money Mystery
Since December 2024, the Ottawa Police Fraud Unit has been hot on the trail of these sneaky fakes. Retailers are reporting that these counterfeits are slipping through their fingers like a magician’s best trick. You might think you’re scoring a deal, but let’s be real—nobody wants to be that person who unknowingly spends a fake bill!
Spotting the Sneaky Counterfeit
Not sure how to tell if your cash is the real deal? Here are some handy tips to keep your wallet safe:
- Serial Numbers Matter: Each bill should have its own unique serial number. If they look like they were printed on a home printer, you might want to reconsider that purchase.
- Tiny Numbers in the Window: Yep, there’s a little window on the bill that has tiny numbers matching the denomination. If they’re missing, you’ve got yourself a fake!
- Portrait Check: Does the portrait in the window match the main portrait? If not, it’s time to say goodbye to that bill.
- Color-Changing Magic: Use a bright light to see if the image in the window changes color. If it doesn’t, you’ve got a counterfeit in your hands.
- Feel the Ink: Run your fingers over the main portrait to feel the raised ink. If it’s smooth as silk, toss that bill aside!
- Watch for Prop Money: If your bill says “prop money” or “for film use only” in fine print, it’s not going to buy you anything but trouble.
What to Do if You Get Caught
If you find yourself on the wrong end of one of these counterfeit bills, don’t panic! Simply report it online through the Ottawa Police Service or give the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre a call at 1-888-495-8501.
Remember, knowledge is power! Keep your eyes peeled and your wallets safe. Let’s make sure these counterfeiters know they can’t pull a fast one on Ottawa!
Stay savvy, folks! 💵✨
