PULLMAN – Pullman Police Department has received two reports in the last two weeks of counterfeit $100 bills being passed at local businesses.
The U.S. Secret Service in Spokane has confirmed five bills passed in Pullman are counterfeit. Local businesses should ensure their cashiers are properly trained in recognizing counterfeit currency and be cautious when receiving large bills.
The counterfeit $100 bills seen in Pullman display a “2003 Series” with serial numbers similar to “BB21997012C.” These bills pass a standard counterfeit pen test.
The phony bills might also be passed in other area of the region, so all WSU faculty and staff are encouraged to be on the alert.
The easiest way to detect this group of counterfeit bills is by the color shifting “100” in the lower right corner of the bill. The counterfeit bills won’t change color, from green to black, as the bill is tilted.
Passing counterfeit currency is a felony. Individuals who receive cash in the mail or by private courier should be suspicious and not try to negotiate these bills. Most legitimate businesses and responsible individuals will NOT send cash through the mail or other courier services.
If you have questions about recognizing counterfeit U.S. Currency, please visit the U.S. Secret Service website and click on “Know Your Money.”
