After counterfeit bills were discovered at a local business in Moose Jaw, officers are urging people to diligently check all banknotes.

The Moose Jaw Police Service received a report of two $100 counterfeit bills at a local business on Wednesday and were able to determine they were counterfeit due to noticeable defects, according to a release from the MJPS.

As the possession, use, and creation of counterfeit money is illegal in Canada, the MJPS reminds the public to report any cases to their local police agency.

According to the MJPS, other jurisdictions have also reported that counterfeit $100 bills have been circulating.

If businesses are unsure of the authenticity of money being offered, the MJPS referred to information provided by the Bank of Canada.

If offered a suspected counterfeit note, you should first assess the situation to make sure you’re not at risk. Then, you are advised to:

• Politely refuse the note and explain that you suspect it may be counterfeit
• Ask for another banknote and check it
• Advise the person giving the banknote to get police to check it
• Inform police off a possible attempt to pass suspected counterfeit money
• Be courteous, as the person in possession of the bill may not realize the banknote is suspicious

If you suspect you’re in possession of a counterfeit banknote, give it to the local police, as timely reporting helps police stop counterfeiting activity in the community.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers or the MJPS.