Fraud investigators with VicPD are warning about an increase in reports of counterfeit U.S. currency.
Since November 1, Victoria police have responded to 24 reports of counterfeit currency being used in Victoria. All but one of the reports involved counterfeit United States bills.
The majority of the cases involve $20 and $50 denominations being used at “cash-based” businesses such as convenience stores, fast food restaurants, and gas stations.
Investigators said they believe there is a relation between counterfeit currency and the street-level drug trade.
“It does not take much to produce somewhat realistic-looking counterfeit notes,” said Det. Sgt Derek Tolmie. “All you need is a computer, color printer and a little bit of knowledge.”
To learn the signs of a counterfeit bill, visit the Bank of Canada website.
Anyone with information is asked to call the VicPD non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654 or call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
