Counterfeit $100 Bills Spotted in Northeast Missouri

Someone in northeast Missouri is using pretend money as if it were real. A police department has shared details of fake $100 bills that were found in circulation and warned of what you can look for to tell the fake from the real.

The Canton, Missouri Police Department just shared this status update on their Facebook page a couple hours ago revealing that counterfeit money is making the rounds.

How can you tell if money is counterfeit?

Loss Prevention Media says that there are several indications that you might be dealing with fake money if you see altered or odd watermarks and the lack of security threads or color-shifting ink. A veteran retail person can also easily detect when the texture feels wrong. Legal tender is hard to replicate on fake paper. Genuine money also has a glow under UV light.

What is the punishment for creating fake currency?

If you're caught, you can expect the book to be thrown at you with severe punishments up to 20 years in prison and a massive fine. The Kansas City, Missouri Police also have warnings about counterfeit money that's been found in their part of the state.

If you live, work or shop anywhere near Canton, Missouri, be extra cautious with any cash you handle. It might be a pretender. If you do come across counterfeit bills anywhere, contact the police and alert them as this is a big problem for all of us eventually.