Businesses in Wayne are seeing fraudulent $20 bills recently. This is an example of a fake $20 bill used for "Motion Picture Purposes".
Here are tips to look for in spotting fraudulent or counterfeit money:
• FEEL THE PAPER. Authentic bills are made from a unique cotton-linen blend that gives them a distinct texture. Fake bills feel smoother or glossier because they are printed on regular paper.
• CHECK THE SECURITY THREAD. Most U.S. bills (except $1 and $2) have a security thread embedded in the paper, running vertically and visible when held up to the light.
• LOOK FOR WATERMARKS. Hold the bill up to the light to see a watermark.
• EXAMINE THE COLOR-SHIFTING INK. On higher denominations like $10, $20, $50, and $100, the numeral in the lower-right corner should change color when you tilt the bill.
• INSPECT PRINTING QUALITY. Real bills have raised printing that can be felt when you run your fingers over the surface.
• CHECK THE DENOMINATION NUMBER. This number in the bottom right corner should appear copper when the bill is held upright.
• USE UV LIGHT. Under ultraviolet light, the security thread should glow a specific color depending on the denomination.
If you have any questions, call any of the local banks in the area. To learn more about the security features of our U.S. currency, visit https://www.uscurrency.gov/denominations.
