Police alerting public of increase in use of counterfeit bills

A significant increase of counterfeit Canadian currency has been passed around Winnipeg over the past month.

Winnipeg police say newer $20 and $100 bills are among the most popular imitations making their way through the city.

The counterfeit bills are reported to have an unauthentic feel. Police say the new bills have a recognizable ‘arts and crafts’ quality to them.

Officials are reminding the public to be on the lookout for these suspicious bills.

Security features to look out for in real Canadian currency include raised printing, and fine line details.

The newer polymer bills will display a metallic portrait and building within the clear window.

If a suspected counterfeit note is found, police advise the public to retain the bill, and ask for another form of payment, then contact police.

For more information on security features of Canadian bills, please visit the bank of Canada website