A: Don’t let fake bills fool you this cookie season! Do you have a suspicious bill? Compare the suspicious note with a real one of the same denomination and series, paying attention to the quality of printing, border, portrait, etc. Look for differences, not similarities. To help you identify fake money, visit https://uscurrency.gov/security/100-security-features-2013-present. Hampton Roads has recently experienced an influx of lower denomination counterfeit bills. Check all bills of $5 or more. Here’s how you can check:
- Hold the bill up to the light and check for the watermark on the right hand side of the president’s head. It should be the same president’s head that is in the center of the bill. For example, a $20 bill that has Andrew Jackson’s face in the center but has Abraham Lincoln’s face in the watermark is a fake (counterfeit) bill.
- Feel the collar of the president’s jacket. It should feel raised or rough. If it feels smooth, it is most likely counterfeit.
- Use a counterfeit bill detector marker. These are available at most office supply stores for a nominal fee.
