News release

Codiac Regional RCMP warns public and business owners of counterfeit bills circulating in Moncton

January 19, 2026 - Moncton, New Brunswick
From: New Brunswick RCMP

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The Codiac Regional RCMP is warning the public and business owners in the community of reports of counterfeit Canadian bills circulating in Moncton. 

Over the past few days, the Codiac Regional RCMP has been receiving reports of counterfeit Canadian bills circulating in Moncton, particularly $20, $50, and $100 bills. In these cases, the transparent security window on the bills has been tampered with. Instead of clean, holographic features, some bills have a dull, misaligned sticker or foil overlay placed right on top of the window, sometimes even peeling at the edges.

Counterfeiters often rely on quick transactions and distracted moments. Taking just a second to feel the raised ink or glance at the security window can make all the difference. If something seems off, trust that instinct. Genuine Canadian bills have crisp metallic portraits, don’t peel, and their serial numbers are properly spaced and consistent.

“If you’re handed a bill that you are unsure about, it’s okay to politely refuse it and ask for another form of payment,” says Cst. Luc Picard of the Codiac Regional RCMP. “If you only notice the issue afterward, try not to handle the note more than necessary. Slip it into an envelope, write down when and where you received it, and contact police for guidance.”

The Codiac Regional RCMP Crime Reduction unit’s Property Crime team has arrested one person in connection with an incident that occurred on January 15, 2026.  The 41-year-old man will appear in court at a later date.  

The RCMP warns that anyone who circulates counterfeit currency may face arrest and prosecution under the Criminal Code of Canada. If you are a business and you receive a suspicious bill and the suspect is still at the scene, call 911.

Anyone who encounters a suspicious bill, or has information that might help a current investigation, is encouraged to contact the Codiac Regional RCMP at 506‑857‑2400.  Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

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