Criminals using counterfeit money to rip off local businesses
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department responded to 13 counterfeit reports in just three days.
According to the reports, the suspects targeted big chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, and Kroger. Police are even investigating a case where a man selling items on Craigslist was given back fake money.
United States Secret Service created a detailed website to give consumers tips on what to look for counterfeit money, such as paying attention to the quality of printing and paper characteristics. Investigators also suggest looking for differences and not similarities.
JJ Pompi, works for Jake’s Fireworks. His store is stocked with the latest and biggest fireworks that money can buy.
During the summer months he serves big crowds, so he and other cashiers are well aware on what to look for when it comes to counterfeit money.
He personally inspects some of the cash that comes into the shop, and he is surprised that criminals are able to pass off the fake cash.
“That’s overwhelming. That tells me a lot of training needs to go into the public,” said Pompi.
The Secret Service has built a template showing accurate portraits, seals, serial numbers and even paper on it’s website. If you would like to view the correct way your money should look, log on to the department’s web site.