By: Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
Police are warning residents and businesses to be on alert as counterfeit currency continues to circulate across the region, with reports rising through 2025.
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) says it received 92 reports of counterfeit banknotes last year. Many of the incidents involved suspects using fake bills to buy items from private sellers on online marketplaces such as Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace. Counterfeit notes have also been turning up at retail stores throughout Halton.
Police say the bills often look convincing at first glance, but closer inspection typically reveals clear warning signs. Some of the counterfeit notes seized in recent cases have included repeated serial numbers, poor‑quality printing, incorrect textures and holographic strips that appear to be stickers or taped‑on inserts. Others have contained phrases such as “Prop Money” or “For Motion Picture Use,” which do not appear on genuine Canadian currency.
HRPS is urging the public to take extra care when handling cash, especially during private sales or cash‑only transactions.
If a banknote seems suspicious, police advise prioritizing personal safety, declining the bill politely and asking for another form of payment. Officers also note that the person offering the counterfeit bill may not realize it is fake.
The Bank of Canada provides detailed information on security features found on legitimate polymer banknotes at bankofcanada.ca/banknotes.
Anyone with information about counterfeit currency in Halton is asked to contact the HRPS Financial Crimes Unit at 905‑825‑4777. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1‑800‑222‑8477 or online at haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
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