How to Spot Fake $100 Bills in Canada

Spotting counterfeit money is crucial for maintaining financial security. With increasing sophistication in counterfeit production, it's essential to know how to identify fake $100 bills. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key features to check on Canadian $100 bills to ensure their authenticity.

1. Check the Security Features
Canadian $100 bills, like all Canadian banknotes, have several security features that are difficult to replicate. Here’s how to check them:

• Security Thread: Look for a security thread embedded in the bill. It should appear as a metallic strip that runs vertically through the bill. On a genuine bill, this thread should be visible from both sides and should be partially covered by a color-shifting ink.

• Color-Shifting Ink: Tilt the bill to see the color-shifting ink in the upper left corner of the bill. It should change from green to black and vice versa. Counterfeit bills often have this feature poorly replicated or absent altogether.

• Watermark: Hold the bill up to the light to view the watermark. The watermark should feature a portrait of Robert Borden and should be visible from both sides of the bill. It should appear clear and distinct.

• Raised Printing: Feel the bill’s surface. Genuine Canadian $100 bills have raised printing that you can feel by running your finger over the surface. This tactile feature is challenging for counterfeiters to reproduce accurately.

2. Inspect the Microprinting
Microprinting on Canadian $100 bills is another security feature to look for. Check the following areas:

• Around the Portrait: The bill features tiny text around the portrait of Robert Borden. This text should be legible only with a magnifying glass and is difficult for counterfeiters to reproduce accurately.

• Security Thread Area: There should be microprinting around the security thread. This text is very small and should be sharp and clear.

3. Examine the Bill’s Color and Design
Counterfeit bills often have color and design discrepancies. Here’s what to look for:

• Color Quality: The colors on a genuine $100 bill should be vibrant and consistent. Counterfeit bills may have dull or uneven coloring.

• Design Details: Check for sharpness in the bill’s design. Genuine Canadian $100 bills have crisp and clear details. Any blurriness or irregularities can indicate a fake.

4. Use a UV Light
Ultraviolet (UV) light can reveal hidden security features on Canadian $100 bills:

• UV Features: Under UV light, genuine bills will show additional security features such as glowing fibers or patterns that are not visible under normal lighting conditions.

5. Compare with a Known Genuine Bill
When in doubt, compare the suspicious bill with a known genuine $100 bill. Look for differences in color, texture, and security features.

6. Seek Professional Verification
If you’re still unsure about the authenticity of a $100 bill, consult with a professional or use a counterfeit detection device. Many businesses and banks have tools designed to verify the authenticity of banknotes.

Common Counterfeit Techniques
Counterfeiters use various methods to create fake $100 bills, including:

• Photocopying: Some counterfeiters use high-quality photocopiers to replicate bills. These fakes often lack the subtle security features present in genuine bills.

• Digital Printing: Advances in digital printing technology have made it easier to produce convincing counterfeits. These fakes can sometimes closely resemble real bills but often fail to include all the security features.

• Overprinting: In some cases, counterfeiters may overprint genuine lower-denomination bills with higher-denomination features. These bills might have a different texture and feel compared to genuine $100 bills.

Legal Implications of Handling Counterfeit Money
Handling counterfeit money is illegal. If you discover that a bill is fake, do not attempt to use it or pass it on. Instead, report it to the authorities or your local law enforcement agency. Providing counterfeit money to others can result in serious legal consequences.

Conclusion
Being able to spot fake $100 bills is essential for anyone handling cash in Canada. By familiarizing yourself with the security features and common counterfeit techniques, you can better protect yourself and your business from fraud. Always remain vigilant and use the tools available to ensure that the money you handle is genuine.