The Asotin Police Department was made aware of a suspected counterfeit $100 bill received by the Asotin Anatone School District during a fundraiser activity. The suspected bill was turned over to the Asotin Police Department once it was identified as fraudulent. Due to the number of hands the bill had passed through, and the amount of money collected, it was impossible to identify how the money was collected. It is understandable how this was passed as a real bill due to its similarity to a real $100 bill. When counting a stack of money, the bill appears real until examined closely. Due to the similarities, the bill had with real U.S. Currency; the Asotin Police Department wanted to educate the public to look closely at any bills they receive for indication of being fake. Even if it is from someone you trust, they could have received it unknowingly and passed it on to you.
The Asotin Police Department recommends the following tips:
- Be wary of large denomination bills you did not receive directly from a bank.
- Check the bills for strange markings such as red/orange Chinese print/stamp or indications it is “Prop Money”.
- Check the texture of the bill, they are typically on regular poor-quality paper and do not have the same feel and texture as real US currency.
- Look for the security features of U.S Currency such as the security thread, 3-D security ribbon, color-shifting bell, Benjamin Franklin watermark, and color-shifting ink “$100” in the lower right corner (Security features listed for a $100 bill).
- Do not return it to the passer. Delay the passer if possible, and only if able to do so safely.
- Observe the passer’s description, as well as that of any companions, and the license plate numbers of any vehicles used.
- Contact your local police department or the United States Secret Service field office. (Asotin Police Department at 509-758-2331.)
- Limit the handling of the note. Carefully place it in a protective covering, such as an envelope.
- Surrender the note or coin only to a properly identified police officer or a U.S. Secret Service special agent.