Bank Note Counterfeiting

Victims of counterfeiting are not compensated for their losses, so it pays to check your bills. The $20 bill is the most widely used and counterfeited bank note.  Half of all bills in circulation are $20s, not $50 or $100 bills.

The new security features are difficult to copy but they are quick and easy to use.

TOUCH

• Touch the shoulders of the image of the person on the front of the bill. You should find that they are raised to the touch.
• Touch the number on the right-hand side of the front of the bill. You should find that it is raised to the touch.

TILT

• Tilt the top of the bill toward you. You will see the silver emblem on the left of the bill has embedded Maple Leafs that change colour.
• The denomination of the bill that shows on the emblem should match the denomination of the bill you are holding.

LOOK THROUGH

• You will see the image of the person on the front of the bill as a water mark slightly to the right of the centre of the bill.
• Next to the water mark you will see the full image of the number of the denomination of the bill rotated 90 degrees.

What To Do With a Suspected Counterfeit Bill

 It is against the law to knowingly use a counterfeit bill or to keep one without a lawful reason.

• Explain to the customer that you think the bill may be counterfeit and request another note.
• Advise the customer that the suspected counterfeit note should be given to local police for verification.
• Notify the local police of an attempt to pass a suspected counterfeit note.
• Avoid putting yourself at risk.

Keep in mind that the customer may be unaware that the bill is suspicious and may be an innocent victim.

For more information visit the Bank of Canada  website or call the Bank of Canada toll-free information line at 1 888 513-8212.

If you have any questions please contact Business Resources at 1 888 234-2232.