Buyers beware – counterfeit currency is making the rounds in Saskatoon.
Police issued a warning Tuesday after getting numerous reports of fake bills being used at city businesses.
Since late February, police have had 15 complaints of counterfeit currency. Fake bills have come in varying denominations.
The phony money is being used at different locations. Police said gas stations and fast food restaurants are among the preferred targets, as they are businesses that more often deal in cash.
In a news release, police noted the bills are described as being of poor quality – they feel like paper as opposed to the new polymer notes, which feel more like plastic.
In some cases, suspects are cutting out the inside translucent portion of a real bill and replacing it in the fake bill. Police said close examination should alert anyone to a bill being fraudulent.
Another important distinction for the fake bills is the inclusion of blue Chinese characters. When translated, the writings states: “Not to be used as real currency” and “Bill to be used for counting practice.”
Anyone with information on this is asked to contact the Saskatoon Police Service at 306-975-8300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.