RCMP cautioning public about surge of fake $50 bills in N.S.

CITYnews halifax / By Steve Gow

The RCMP is warning the public about an increase in counterfeit $50 bills showing up in Nova Scotia.

According to the RCMP, at least eight separate calls have come in about high-quality fake $50 bank notes being used to buy goods or services in such counties as Colchester, East Hants, West Hants, Kings and Lunenburg.

The bills all have identical serial numbers and are made from a plastic similar to real currency with a holographic sticker that can be peeled off on one side.

If accepting cash, Nova Scotians are encouraged to check the bank notes to ensure they’re proper legal tender.

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“In Canada, it’s an offence to knowingly use or possess counterfeit money,” says Cpl. Mitch Thompson of the Commercial Crime Section. “And if you unknowingly accept counterfeit cash as legal tender, you can’t be reimbursed; you’re on the hook for the loss. Being familiar with the security features of genuine bank notes will help you spot counterfeits at a glance, protecting yourself from fraud.”

Anyone with information about counterfeit money is asked to contact their nearest RCMP detachment or local police or provide an anonymous tip to Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.