Mounties in the Comox Valley are warning shoppers and businesses to watch out for counterfeit American bills making the rounds this shopping season.
RCMP say they’ve been made aware of more than $200 in counterfeit dollars exchanged at local stores recently.
“It is imperative that you take the time to look over bills and know their security features before accepting them,” said Const. Rob Gardner in a news release.
All of the counterfeit bills reported so far are $20, Gardner said, and some have been used for separate purchases at the same store within minutes.
Store clerks with concerns can refuse to accept any suspicious-looking bills, according to RCMP.
The U.S. government says there are a number of security features on $20 bills, such as colour-shifting ink in the lower right corner of bills, a portrait watermark and a security thread that glows green under ultraviolet light.
Mounties are also requesting any suspicious activities be reported to them at 250-338-1321 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
