The Halton Regional Police Service is warning residents about a rise in counterfeit cash being used in private sales through online platforms and at local businesses.
Police say they received 92 reports of fake banknotes in 2025, with many incidents involving purchases made through Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji. Counterfeit notes have also been detected at retail stores across the region.
Authorities caution that fake polymer banknotes can appear genuine at first glance but often show clear signs on closer inspection. Red flags include repeated serial numbers, poor print quality, incorrect or removable holographic strips, unusual wording such as “Prop Money,” and differences in texture or thickness.
The warning comes as the Retail Council of Canada reports an increase in counterfeit currency during the holiday season, with some fake notes becoming harder to detect.
Police advise anyone conducting cash transactions—especially private sales—to carefully examine banknotes, decline suspicious bills and prioritize personal safety. They also note that individuals passing counterfeit money may not always know it is fake.
For information on security features found on legitimate Canadian banknotes, police recommend consulting the Bank of Canada. Anyone with information about counterfeit currency is urged to contact the HRPS Financial Crimes Unit or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
Police also remind the public that knowingly using or possessing counterfeit money is a criminal offence, and those who unknowingly accept fake cash will not be reimbursed. Suspected counterfeit notes should be turned over to police to help curb circulation and support investigations.