Has counterfeit money made its way to Airdrie?

Airdrie RCMP has confirmed they have received a complaint regarding the use of alleged counterfeit money. Airdrie Mounties said that the complaint stemmed from two $100 bills that were recovered at a bank.

This comes after a previous warning from Red Deer RCMP about counterfeit currency making its rounds. In late March, Red Deer RCMP said they had received multiple reports of transactions where $50 and $100 counterfeit bills were used or attempted to be used.

"Anyone in the area who handles currency is alerted to be on the lookout for suspicious bills and should they come into contact with it, report it to police," Mounties said.

Police are urging residents and businesses to be cautious and added that the Bank of Canada has guidelines for dealing with counterfeit currency. 

"If you suspect that you’re being offered a counterfeit note, assess the situation to ensure that you are not at risk. Then politely refuse the note and explain that you suspect that it may be counterfeit. Ask for another note (and check it too)," the Bank of Canada states on its website.

It's also advised for a person to check the note with the local police.

"Inform your local police of a possible attempt to pass suspected counterfeit money. Be courteous. Remember that the person in possession of the bill could be an innocent victim who does not realize that the note is suspicious." 

If you suspect that you’ve received a counterfeit note, give it to the local police.

"If it’s real, you’ll get it back. Either way, the police should be informed of possible counterfeiting activity in your community. Timely reporting helps police and prosecutors bring counterfeiters to justice," The Bank of Canada added.

RCMP statistics show that in 2022, there were a total of 15,332 counterfeit banknotes passed into circulation across Canada, with a total of 53,630 seized by law enforcement. 

Statistics on counterfeit Canadian bank notes - Total number by denomination. (Graphic credit to RCMP)

The Bank of Canada states that it uses a combination of security and quality measures, as well as education initiatives to battle counterfeit money.

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