Residents and businesses on Manitoulin Island and across Northern Ontario are being urged to exercise heightened vigilance this holiday season as police report a concerning circulation of counterfeit cash. Law enforcement agencies have issued a public alert, warning that these fake bills are sophisticated and challenging to identify.
Police Forces Across the Region Sound the Alarm
The warning comes from multiple police services, including the Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service and the Sudbury police. Authorities indicate that counterfeit Canadian banknotes are being passed in retail transactions, taking advantage of the increased volume and pace of holiday shopping. December 22, 2025, marks the date of this coordinated alert, aiming to curb the spread of fraudulent currency during what analysts call a "prime time" for such crimes.
Public safety experts note that the holiday rush creates an environment where retail staff are busier and may have less time to scrutinize every bill, making it easier for counterfeiters to "get away with" passing fake money. The current batch of counterfeit notes in circulation is described as being of high quality, making them "extremely difficult" to detect without close inspection.
How to Spot Fake Banknotes
Police are advising both cashiers and the public to be aware of standard security features found on genuine Canadian polymer bills. Key things to check include:
- The large, transparent window that contains metallic portraits and building images.
- The raised ink that can be felt on the large number, the shoulders of the main portrait, and the words "Bank of Canada."
- The hidden numbers that appear when the bill is tilted.
- The crispness of detail and the unique texture of the polymer material.
Anyone who suspects they have received a counterfeit bill should not return it to the passer. Instead, they should try to delay the person if it is safe to do so, note their physical description and any vehicle details, and contact local police immediately.
A Wider Canadian Concern
While the immediate alert focuses on Manitoulin Island and the Greater Sudbury area, the issue is noted as part of a broader rise in counterfeit currency activity across Canada. The holiday season often sees a spike in various forms of financial fraud, with counterfeit cash being a persistent threat to small businesses and consumers alike.
Law enforcement emphasizes that public awareness is a critical first line of defense. By taking a moment to verify the authenticity of larger bills, especially during busy periods, retailers can protect their revenue and help police track the source of these fraudulent notes. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity related to counterfeit money to their local police service or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
