Timmins police report an increase in counterfeit cash in the community

Police in Timmins are alerting businesses and members of the public of an increase in counterfeit $50 and $100 bills circulating in the city.

There has been a surge of fake $50 and $100 bills being passed in Timmins in the last two months, police announced this week.

“Police have observed that the counterfeit notes being passed are primarily $50 and $100 bills,” officials said in a news release Jan. 15.

“This issue is not isolated to Timmins, as similar activity has been reported in other northeastern Ontario communities.”

Same serial number

Investigators have also identified that a common serial number -- AHU5885903 -- has appeared on several of the forged notes.

“Members of the public and businesses are asked to be particularly vigilant for this serial number when handling cash,” police said.

Police in North Bay have also alerted the public about the counterfeit cash, which has the same serial number.

The Bank of Canada has issued guidelines on how to detect counterfeit bills. They include feeling the bill and looking for “the smooth, unique texture of the note. It is made from a single piece of polymer with transparent areas,” police said.

“Touch the portrait, the large number, and the words ‘Bank of Canada’ on the front of the note. These features should feel raised.”

The word ‘Canada’ in or around the large transparent window should feel slightly raised.

Portraits should match

“Look at the metallic portrait in the large transparent window. It should match the large portrait on the front of the note,” police said.

“Verify that the numbers in and around the transparent window match the value of the note. For the vertical $10 note, check that the detailed metallic images and symbols appear sharp and well defined.”

If you tilt the note, you should see colour changes in the metallic portrait and other holographic features on both the front and back.

“Flip the note over and ensure the metallic portrait in the transparent window matches the large portrait on the front,” the release said.

“For the vertical $10 note, confirm the metallic elements are repeated on the back in the same colours and detail.”

More information on detecting counterfeit bills can be found at the Bank of Canada’s website.

Anyone who discovers counterfeit money can report it to the Timmins Police Service using the non-emergency line at 705-264-1201.

“For businesses reporting suspected counterfeit currency, it is helpful to first gather all relevant information, including CCTV footage, receipts, and any other related evidence, prior to contacting police,” police said.

“Businesses may then call police or attend the station to complete a report. Timely reporting assists police and prosecutors in identifying those responsible, tracking counterfeit circulation patterns, and protecting the community from further financial loss.”