Fake $100 bills circulating in Ottawa: Police

Officials are asking people to keep an eye out for counterfeit bills after receiving reports of the fraudulent currency being used in the city.

Police say that since December 2024, its fraud unit has gotten multiple reports of fake currency being used at retailers without people noticing until it was too late.

Officials say the bills used are $100 and there are several ongoing investigations to track down the culprits.

In response, officers are asking people to keep an eye on their bills and checking to make sure they are real.

Here are some ways to tell if the currency is counterfeit:

• Check serial numbers when accepting cash, each bill should have a unique serial number
• Check the window on the bill for tiny numbers matching the denomination
• Verify that the portrait in the window matches the main portrait
• Use a small, bright light to see tiny numbers in the maple leaf window
• Ensure the image in the window changes colour
• Feel the raised ink on the main portrait by running your finger over it
• Observe the bill to see if it is identified as “prop money” or “for film use only,”  often times, this can be seen in the fine print

If you have been a victim of fraud, please report it online with the Ottawa Police Service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or by phone at 1-888-495-8501 (toll-free).