Paper counterfeit $20 notes: RCMP reminds the public and retailers to be vigilant

TORONTO, Dec. 6, 2013 /CNW/ - The "O" Division RCMP is reminding the public and retailers to pay close attention to the bank notes they receive. A number of counterfeit $20 notes from the most recent series of paper bank notes (with the metallic stripe) have been passed in Ontario over the last few weeks.

As always, we are advising retailers and the public to check two or more security features. These $20 counterfeits can be easily detected when compared with a note that you know is genuine. All denominations in this series have the same security features. Once you know how to check the features on one note, you know how to check any denomination. It takes only minutes to learn how and a few seconds to check your money. Checking cash is a quick and reliable deterrent to counterfeiting.

This series of paper bank notes has reliable security features to verify, including:

• Metallic stripe - Tilt the note back and forth. The numbers and maple leaves change colour.
  
  
• Raised Ink - Feel for the thicker ink on the large number, the shoulders of the portrait and the text "BANK OF CANADA ● BANQUE DU CANADA"
  
  
• Ghost Image - Hold the bill up to the light and look through it.  A small watermark of the portrait appears;
  
  
• Security Thread - Hold the bill up to the light and look through it.  The dashes on the back of the note become a solid line.

Training materials on counterfeit detection are available by calling the Bank of Canada's toll-free number at 1-888-513-8212.  Materials can also be downloaded from the Bank's website at www.bankofcanada.ca/en/banknotes.

If you come across a bank note you believe to be counterfeit, please contact your local police.

SOURCE: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

For further information:

For media inquiries, please call: 

Cpl Tim LAURENCE
RCMP Financial Crime Unit (GTA)
"O" Division (Ontario)
905-876-9587

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