PRINCE ALBERT — The Prince Albert Police Service is advising members of the public that counterfeit banknotes have recently been circulating around the city.
Over the last few days, members of the Prince Albert Police Service have responded to numerous fraud reports where counterfeit banknotes were used at businesses around the city. In many cases, say police, an individual enters a business and pays for an item with a counterfeit $100 or $50 note and receives real Canadian currency in exchange.
Police say the counterfeit banknotes look similar to real banknotes, however, the counterfeit ones are a slightly different colour and have no raised edges. Ink also may scratch off the counterfeit banknotes and they may have the same serial number.
If you suspect you are being offered a counterfeit note, police say you should assess the situation, ensuring you aren’t at risk, then take the following steps:
- Politely refuse the note and explain that you suspect it may be counterfeit.
- Ask for another note and make sure to inspect it as well.
- Advise the person to check the note with police.
- Call police and inform them of a possible attempt to pass suspected counterfeit money.
- Be courteous and remember that the person in possession of the bill could be an innocent victim who is not aware the note is suspicious.
More information on counterfeit prevention can be found on the Bank of Canada website.
Police are continuing to investigate. Anyone with information that may assist police in this investigation is asked to call 306-953-4222. Anonymous tips can also be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=248/.
