The Moose Jaw Police Service is issuing a public warning to businesses and residents to carefully check their banknotes. This alert comes after the discovery of counterfeit bills circulating within the community.
Police Issue Public Alert
Authorities confirmed the discovery of forged currency on December 4, 2025. While specific details regarding the denominations or quantity of the fake money were not immediately released, the police service emphasized the seriousness of the situation. They are actively investigating the source of the counterfeit notes.
The police are urging all local shop owners, retail staff, and service providers to be extra vigilant when handling cash transactions. This proactive step is crucial to prevent financial losses and to help law enforcement track the distribution of the fraudulent money.
How Businesses Can Protect Themselves
To combat this threat, the Moose Jaw Police Service recommends several security measures. Employees who handle cash should be trained to recognize the security features present on genuine Canadian banknotes.
Key security features to check include:
- The raised ink on the large numeral and shoulders of the portrait.
- The metallic portrait or building in the large transparent window.
- The colour-shifting elements on newer polymer notes.
- The fine-line details and micro-printing that are difficult for counterfeiters to replicate.
Businesses are advised to use counterfeit detection pens or ultraviolet lights, especially for larger transactions. Any suspicious note should be compared directly to a known genuine bill from the same series and denomination.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspect Bill
If you believe you have received a counterfeit banknote, the police provide clear instructions. Do not return the note to the person who gave it to you. Instead, try to delay the individual if it is safe to do so, and note their physical description, any vehicle details, and the direction they traveled.
Contact the Moose Jaw Police Service immediately by calling their non-emergency line. You should also inform your local bank branch. It is important to handle the suspected bill as little as possible and place it in a protective sleeve or envelope to preserve potential evidence, such as fingerprints.
Remember, knowingly possessing or using counterfeit money is a criminal offence. The police remind the public that the primary goal is to stop the circulation of these forgeries and identify those responsible for producing or distributing them.
This incident serves as a timely reminder for all sectors of the community to stay alert. Financial fraud can impact businesses of all sizes, and cooperation between the public and police is essential for a swift resolution.
