Counterfeit Cash Circulates in Maple Ridge Community

Counterfeit Canadian banknotes of $50 and $100 have been circulating in Maple Ridge, a community in the Lower Mainland.

According to the Maple Ridge RCMP, there have been at least eight separate reports of counterfeit cash in the past month. In some cases, businesses unknowingly accepted the fake money and were left with losses.

The RCMP is warning that it's a criminal offense to knowingly possess or use counterfeit money. Businesses are also reminded to educate their staff on how to identify fake currency and have protocols in place for handling cash.

'We want the public to be aware of this recent fraud trend so that they can take the necessary steps to protect themselves,' said Frontline Sergeant Daniel Rettenbacher. 'Local business owners are reminded to ensure staff are familiar with how to identify counterfeit currency and verify security features.'