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Winnipeg police have issued an urgent warning following a marked increase in counterfeit Canadian banknotes circulating within the city since early 2025. Reports indicate that counterfeit incidents have more than doubled in the first quarter of the year, leading to seizures totaling approximately $12,000 in fake currency. Authorities are advising residents and businesses to exercise heightened vigilance when handling cash transactions to mitigate financial losses associated with counterfeit bills.
Increase in Counterfeit Currency Cases
Since the beginning of 2025, Winnipeg has seen a sharp rise in counterfeit Canadian banknotes entering circulation. Police reports confirm that incidents involving fake currency have more than doubled compared to the previous year. During the first three months of 2025 alone, law enforcement officials have confiscated counterfeit notes valued at around $12,000. This surge has raised concerns among financial institutions, businesses, and the local community.
Police Advisory and Preventive Measures
In response to these developments, Winnipeg Police Service has issued a public advisory urging both residents and businesses to adopt increased scrutiny when accepting cash payments. The police recommend closely examining banknotes for security features such as watermarks, holographic stripes, and raised printing. They also advise comparing suspicious bills against known genuine currency or using detection tools like ultraviolet light scanners.
Businesses, particularly those in retail and hospitality sectors, are encouraged to train employees on identifying counterfeit currency and to promptly report any fraudulent notes to law enforcement authorities. The police have emphasized the importance of vigilance to help prevent the spread of counterfeit money and reduce potential financial harm.
Impact on Community and Economy
The circulation of counterfeit currency not only affects individual consumers and businesses but also undermines confidence in the monetary system. Financial losses from accepting fake banknotes can be significant, especially for small enterprises that may struggle to absorb the cost. Additionally, an increase in counterfeit activity could complicate cash handling processes and necessitate more extensive verification measures across the community.
Ongoing Investigations and Cooperation
Winnipeg police continue to investigate the sources and networks responsible for distributing counterfeit banknotes. Authorities are collaborating with the Bank of Canada and other federal agencies specialized in currency security to trace and dismantle counterfeit operations. The public is encouraged to remain alert and report any suspicious currency incidents through official channels.
Recommendations for the Public
- Examine banknotes carefully using available detection methods.
- Be cautious when accepting large denominations or unfamiliar bills.
- Report any suspicious currency to local law enforcement immediately.
- Consider using electronic payment methods where feasible to minimize cash handling risks.
These measures aim to safeguard the community and help authorities combat the increase in counterfeit currency circulation effectively.
In summary, the recent surge in counterfeit Canadian banknotes in Winnipeg poses a significant challenge to the safety and stability of local cash transactions. The Winnipeg Police Service’s urgent advisory and ongoing investigations highlight the critical need for increased vigilance among residents and businesses. By adhering to recommended detection practices and reporting suspicious activity promptly, the community can play a vital role in mitigating financial losses and supporting efforts to dismantle counterfeit operations. Continued cooperation between law enforcement, financial institutions, and the public remains essential to preserving trust in the monetary system and protecting the local economy.