‘Be aware’: Manitoba business warning about counterfeit cash

A business in Steinbach is warning others to be vigilant after it says a customer tried to pass a fake $20 bill.

A Manitoba business is warning others to stay vigilant after a customer attempted to pay with a fake $20 bill.

Charles Tyson, lounge manager at the Frantz Inn in Steinbach, Man., said a customer handed the phony bill to a server, who noticed immediately it was counterfeit.

Tyson said when the customer was confronted, she simply walked out of the lounge.

“It was very obvious that it was fake, just by feel alone,” he said in an interview with CTV News on Monday.

“But also, it said ‘copy’ on it, and the transparent part had no hologram either.”

Tyson said he’s worked in the hospitality industry for a long time and has seen situations like this before.

He added the Frantz Inn most commonly sees counterfeit toonies, noting that it’s often smaller denominations that get passed off as fakes.

“In the past we’ve seen it where, because it’s a dark nightclub in the evening, it’s easier to pass off,” he said.

“But generally, by feel you can tell that it’s fake. Our simple test is to run water on it and then start to rub it, and it starts to disintegrate.”

Tyson said he’s opted to speak out about the incident so that other businesses in the area don’t fall victim to fake money.

“Just be aware,” he said. “Make sure that your staff is well trained. And know that this stuff is out there and happens, especially in the lower denominations.”

RCMP offers advice

In a statement, the Manitoba RCMP said it’s aware of online marketplaces selling counterfeit money but can’t confirm a correlation between these online sales and the rise of fake bills.

It suggests that if a person is offered counterfeit money, they should assess the situation for any risks, politely refuse, and ask for another bill. Mounties added the person should also inform local police about any possible attempts to pass off counterfeit currency.

• With files from CTV’s Scott Andersson