The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is warning residents and businesses about an increase in counterfeit currency being used across the region.

In 2025, police received 92 reports involving counterfeit banknotes in Halton. A significant number of these incidents involved suspects using counterfeit currency to purchase items from unsuspecting victims through online marketplaces such as Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace. Counterfeit banknotes have also been detected at retail businesses throughout the region.

The HRPS is reminding the public that while counterfeit banknotes may initially appear genuine, closer inspection often reveals warning signs.

Identifying Counterfeit Banknotes

Counterfeit notes may display one or more of the following indicators (see attached photos for examples):

  • Repeated serial numbers appearing on multiple banknotes
  • Wording such as “Prop Money,” “For Motion Picture Use,” or other non-standard or foreign text, particularly within the holographic strip or elsewhere on the note
  • A holographic strip that appears to be a removable sticker or is taped into the transparent window or indicates the incorrect value
  • Dull, uneven, or peeling colours and poor print quality
  • A noticeable difference in thickness or texture compared to genuine Canadian polymer banknotes

What to Do if You Suspect a Counterfeit Banknote

If you believe a banknote may be counterfeit, HRPS recommends the following:

  • Prioritize your personal safety and avoid any action that could place you at risk
  • Politely decline the banknote and request an alternative form of payment
  • Carefully examine all banknotes before accepting them, particularly during private sales or cash transactions
  • Keep in mind that the individual presenting the note may be unaware that it is counterfeit

For more information about the security features found on genuine Canadian banknotes, visit the Bank of Canada’s website at: www.bankofcanada.ca/banknotes

Anyone with information related to the use or circulation of counterfeit currency is asked to contact the HRPS Financial Crimes Unit at 905-825-4777.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something?” Contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit information online at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.

Media Inquiries:
Halton Regional Police Service
Media Relations
Phone: 905-825-4899
Email: corpcomm@haltonpolice.ca

 

 

 

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