How to Spot Counterfeit Canadian Polymer Banknotes
If you accept cash when buying or selling on Kijiji, it’s important to know how to verify that Canadian banknotes are genuine.
Canadian polymer banknotes include advanced security features designed to make counterfeiting difficult. The Bank of Canada recommends checking multiple security features using the Feel, Look, Tilt, and Flip method.
1. Feel the Note
Genuine Canadian banknotes are made from a single piece of polymer and have a smooth, distinctive texture.
Check for:
- A smooth polymer surface with transparent areas
- Raised ink on the large portrait
- Raised ink on the large denomination number
- Raised ink on the words “Bank of Canada” and “Banque du Canada”
If the note feels unusually rough, paper-like, layered, or appears to have seams, it may be counterfeit.
2. Look at the Transparent Window
The large transparent window contains several important security features.
Verify that:
- The metallic portrait matches the large portrait on the front of the note
- The numbers in and around the window match the denomination of the note
- The metallic images appear sharp and well-defined
- The transparent areas appear clean and integrated into the note, not attached separately
3. Tilt the Note
When tilted, genuine notes display distinct colour-shifting effects in the metallic features.
Look for:
- Colour changes in the metallic portrait
- Colour changes in other holographic elements
- Sharp, clear visual effects rather than dull or static images
For some polymer notes, viewing the frosted maple leaf security feature against a point light source can reveal numbers matching the denomination of the note.
4. Flip the Note
Turn the note over and inspect the transparent window from the reverse side.
Confirm that:
- The metallic portrait matches the portrait on the front
- The metallic elements appear in the same colours and detail on both sides
- The security features appear integrated into the note, not applied as stickers or overlays
Common Warning Signs
Counterfeit notes may display one or more of the following:
- Identical serial numbers appearing on multiple notes
- Holographic elements that peel away from the note
- Security strips or holograms that appear to be stickers
- Blurry printing or poor image quality
- Colours that differ noticeably from genuine notes
- Text such as “Prop Money,” “For Motion Picture Use Only,” or similar markings
- Missing or poorly reproduced security features
Important: No single feature should be used to determine authenticity. Always check multiple security features before accepting a note.
What Should I Do If I Receive a Suspicious Note?
If you suspect a note may be counterfeit:
- Do not rely on the note as payment until you are satisfied it is genuine.
- Politely request an alternative form of payment.
- Avoid returning a suspicious note to circulation.
- Contact your local police service if you believe counterfeit currency is involved.
- If you have already accepted a suspicious note, contact your bank or local police for guidance.
Buying and Selling Safely on Kijiji
When meeting for cash transactions:
- Meet in a safe, public location.
- Take time to examine larger denominations.
- Compare suspicious notes with a note you know is genuine.
- Do not feel pressured to rush the transaction.
Checking banknotes carefully helps protect both buyers and sellers from counterfeit currency scams.
