Winnipeg police are warning the public about a sharp rise in counterfeit Canadian currency circulating throughout the city since the start of 2025.
According to the Winnipeg Police Service’s Financial Crime Unit, officers have seized more than $12,000 in fake bills during the first quarter of the year—more than double the reports seen during the same period previously.
The majority of the counterfeits are high-quality fakes that mimic real polymer notes and even include some security features, making them harder to spot. They have the words “prop money” printed in reverse in small black letters on the holographic strip, and within the hologram itself.
Serial numbers currently being recovered from fake bills range from GJR6710018 through GJR6710022, police say.
The fake notes, which have shown up in $20, $50, and $100 denominations, may also show subtle warning signs:
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Slightly different colouration
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Worn or fading images
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Creasing in the middle
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A texture more like paper
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A raised holographic strip, rather than one flush with the bill
The notes are believed to originate outside of Canada and have been reported in use at various businesses across Winnipeg.
Anyone with concerns about a potentially counterfeit bill is urged to visit their bank or consult the Bank of Canada website for guidance.