A warning was recently issued about counterfeit money making its way to central Ohio. According to the U.S. Secret Service and the Westerville Police, counterfeit old-style $100 bills have appeared in local cash circulation.

How is the fake money produced and how can you tell if an imposture makes its way you’re your wallet? Authorities warn that most of the fake bills have been made by bleaching $1 notes and digitally printing counterfeit $100 bills.  A genuine bill will have a security thread of micro-printing around the picture of Benjamin Franklin. The micro-printing will only be visible when held up to a light.  It is important to note that bills that were printed prior to 1990 do not have the security thread or the micro-printing around the portrait of Benjamin Franklin.

If you believe you have come across a counterfeit $100 bill, please contact the Westerville Division of Police or the U.S. Secret Service Office.