Counterfeit money circulating on Manitoulin Island, police warn

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The Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service (WTPS) is warning community members and local businesses about counterfeit money circulating in Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory.

Police say fake $20, $50, and $100 bills have been found in the First Nation community located on Manitoulin Island.

In a video posted to social media, WTPS Cons. Raven Manitowabi outlined key differences between real and counterfeit bills.

“The counterfeit is a little darker and it’s not clear, and the counterfeit will have the word ‘COPY’ below the number,” Manitowabi said.

“All of the serial numbers are all going to be the same.”

She noted that fake $20 bills have serial numbers beginning with FLA. Other signs include inconsistent colouring, texture, and missing or unclear watermarks.

WTPS advises the public to carefully inspect cash by checking watermarks, feeling the texture, and looking for unusual colouring.

Anyone who encounters counterfeit money is urged to report it using the WTPS’ new online non-emergency tool.