Police warn of counterfeit cash circulating in the North Okanagan

Jun 13, 2025 | 1:19 PM

Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP are warning the public about fake currency being used in the area.

Police said there have been several reports of fake Canadian and U.S. cash being used at local businesses since May.

The use of the fake cash was being investigated, and the public was advised to carefully check bills when buying or selling goods.

“Counterfeit cash can result in financial losses for people and businesses,” said Constable Chris Terleski, Media Relations Officer for the Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP.

“There are differences between them, but both currencies have some distinct security features you can use to help spot a fake. If you know what you’re looking for, the phony bills won’t stand up.”

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People were advised to take precautions and ensure the bills they deal with are legitimate. Those steps include examining the bill closely and checking for the transparent polymer windows, embedded holograms, raised ink, and light-reactive elements; ensuring the bills feel real, as Canadian currency is made with polymer and U.S. cash is made with a cotton/linen blend; and ensuring the bills have unique serial numbers.

Police also advised that business owners train staff so they know how to spot key security features, and also urged everyone to be cautious with high value bills, especially if they’re being used to pay for small priced items.

Anyone who does come across a suspected fake bill were urged to refuse the transaction and report the incident to police, adding the person using the bill may not know that they have phony money.

by Liam Verster

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