TERRACE, B.C. – Terrace RCMP are issuing a warning to local businesses and the public to be highly vigilant after a man was arrested for allegedly possessing and attempting to use counterfeit cash in the community.
The incident was first reported to police on October 29, when one local business accepted fraudulent bills from a man, only realizing later that they were fake. On the same day, a second business reported a man attempting to use the counterfeit money, though they did not accept the bills.
Following an investigation, police identified the man and arrested him for possession of counterfeit money. He has since been released with a court date and conditions, and the RCMP intend to submit the results to the BC Prosecution Services for consideration of charge approval.
The Danger of ‘Prop Money’
RCMP seized the counterfeit money from one business and revealed a crucial detail: all the bills have the same serial number and are explicitly marked with “Prop Money”—indicating they are novelty bills often purchased online for film use.
The circulation of these fake notes is a growing issue, and police are urging the public to be aware of the signs of counterfeit money .
How to Protect Your Business
The Bank of Canada and law enforcement advise retailers, especially during busy periods, to take specific steps to protect themselves from financial loss:
- Check the Serial Numbers: If a customer presents multiple bills, check the serial numbers. If they all have the same number, they are reproductions.
- Feel the Ink and Material: Authentic Canadian bills have specific security features, including raised ink on the large number and words like “Bank of Canada” that are distinguishable by touch.
- Look for the ‘Prop’ Markings: Explicit “Prop Money” or “For Film Use Only” markings are often present on fake bills and should be easily visible upon inspection.
- Tilt the Bill: Genuine polymer notes feature metallic elements in the large transparent window that change colour when tilted.
If you suspect you have received a counterfeit note, politely refuse it, ask for another form of payment, and then report the incident to your local police immediately.
