Wasilla PD warns of counterfeit $20 bills

Wasilla Police report an increase in counterfeit $20 bills being circulated in businesses around town, from coffee shops to McDonald’s. WPD notes that gas stations especially have been targeted by the counterfeit bills.

“Anywhere a lot of cash is being exchanged in a quick amount of time is a good spot for fakes,” Wasilla Police Department Public Information Officer Amanda Graham noted.

The bills have the same serial numbers and defects, with one telltale sign that a fake bill is being used is that the bottom corner on the back is white, police reported.

Graham also notes that the counterfeit money feels like high-quality paper that has been washed several times.

WPD directs that if you are the recipient of a fake bill to try and identify the person using the money and to not give change, but above all else, contact law enforcement immediately. Counterfeit money is physically collected by law enforcement and turned over to the Secret Service for further investigation.

People are also urged to visit www.uscurrency.gov for more tips on recognizing counterfeit money.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Katie Stavick at katie.stavick@frontiersman.com