Fake bills are making their way into local businesses. But not all “fake” money is the same. Some bills are counterfeit (illegal and intended to deceive), while others are prop money (legal for entertainment but not for transactions). Not all money is created equal; here’s what you need to know.
Counterfeit vs. Fake (Prop) Money
Counterfeit Money
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- Created to deceive and spend as real currency.
- Illegal under federal law (Title 18 U.S.C. §§ 471–472).
- Often mimics security features to fool businesses.
Prop/Fake Money
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- Used for movies, photography, or training.
- Legal for use as props if clearly marked (e.g., “For Motion Picture Purposes”).
- Lower-quality paper, lacks security features.
- Still problematic if passed off as real.
Why it matters: Both can disrupt your business, but counterfeit money is a federal crime, while prop money is legal for entertainment purposes—just not for transactions.
How to Spot a Counterfeit Bill
The U.S. Currency Education Program recommends these checks:
- Feel the Paper; genuine U.S. currency has raised printing and a unique texture.
- Tilt the Bill; look for color-shifting ink on denomination numbers (copper to green).
- Hold to Light; check for a watermark and an embedded security thread.
- Look for Microprinting; tiny text appears around portraits and borders.
- Use UV Light; security threads glow a specific color under UV light (e.g., green for $20).
Resources & Tutorials
- US Currency Guides Tips to Spot Easy-to-Detect Counterfeit Notes and more at https://www.uscurrency.gov/
- There are Apps designed to help too such as Cash Assist available on Google Play and Apple
- We also love this TEDEd Video and their full tutorial and resources at >> How to Spot a Counterfeit Bill
Stay Vigilant
Counterfeit and fake bills can cost businesses and consumers time and money. By knowing the difference and learning how to spot the signs, you help protect your community and keep transactions secure.
What to Do If You Receive a Counterfeit Bill
- Do not return it to the person who gave it to you.
- Separate it from other cash.
- Contact local law enforcement or as a customer of CSB, you can turn it in to any of our branch locations; either case it will be reported to the U.S. Secret Service.
On the other hand, if you receive a Prop/Fake bill, simply shred it and dispose. Yes, unfortunately in this case, you are out the cash!