RCMP Alert: Counterfeit Cash in Online Sales Across New Brunswick

The New Brunswick RCMP is warning residents about a recent rise in counterfeit cash being used during in-person meetings arranged through online marketplaces such as Kijiji and similar buy-and-sell platforms. Individuals selling items are discovering, often after the fact, that the money they accepted is fake.

These incidents are occurring during pre-arranged meetups where buyers pay with cash. Many victims only realize the bills are counterfeit once the person who paid has already left the location, making it difficult for police to track suspects. Police are urging anyone using online marketplaces in New Brunswick to take extra care when accepting cash and to report suspicious activity promptly.

Official RCMP Details

According to the New Brunswick RCMP, complaints have been received from people who arranged to sell goods online, met with a supposed buyer in person, and were unknowingly paid using counterfeit currency. The falsified bills were typically identified only after the transaction was completed and the suspect had departed.

Police stress that while online platforms can be safe and convenient, they are also exploited by individuals with criminal intent. To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of counterfeit currency during these exchanges, the RCMP is reminding the public of the following safety measures:

• Inspect cash thoroughly: Carefully examine any bills you receive. Look for standard Canadian banknote security features, such as raised ink, transparent windows, holographic elements, and clear printing quality. Compare suspicious notes with a bill you know is genuine, if possible.
• Consider safer payment options: When appropriate, use secure digital or electronic payment methods instead of cash to reduce the opportunity for counterfeit money to change hands.
• Trust your judgment: If a buyer, seller, or situation feels uncomfortable or suspicious at any point, cancel or postpone the transaction. You are not obligated to proceed if you feel unsafe or uncertain about the payment.

Police also note that scams are not limited to online marketplace transactions. Residents are being reminded that fraudulent schemes continue to surface in other areas, including housing-related offers. One example highlighted by investigators involves deceptive insulation or home-improvement scams in which individuals misrepresent services or use misleading tactics to obtain money or goods from homeowners.

If you believe you have been given counterfeit currency:

• Do not continue handling or passing the suspected counterfeit money.
• Secure the bill in a safe place without further circulation.
• As soon as it is safe to do so, contact your local police detachment and follow their instructions.
• Try to record or remember details such as a physical description of the individual, vehicle information, the exact meeting location, the date and time, and any communication history related to the transaction.

Anyone with information about these counterfeit cash incidents or related scams is asked to contact their local RCMP detachment or other local police service. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or via www.crimestoppers.ca. Community members who wish to share safety-related tips with CrimeCanada.ca can review our Tip Submission Policy before reaching out through our Contact & Report a Tip page.

CrimeCanada.ca Safety Perspective

From the perspective of CrimeCanada.ca, counterfeit currency in online marketplace transactions is a critical public safety issue for communities across New Brunswick. These crimes not only cause direct financial loss to individual sellers but also undermine trust in everyday peer-to-peer sales that many families rely on to buy and sell used items affordably. By staying informed through ongoing Safety Alerts, residents can learn to spot warning signs of fraud and take practical steps to protect themselves.

When arranging to meet buyers or sellers, consider choosing well-lit, public locations, bringing another person with you, and clarifying payment methods in advance. Never feel pressured to rush a transaction or accept payment that you have not had time to check. Rapid reporting of suspicious activity, including suspected counterfeit notes or scam approaches, helps police identify patterns and respond more effectively, contributing to safer neighbourhoods across the province.

Official Source & Community Safety

This safety alert is based on an official release from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). CrimeCanada.ca aggregates and analyzes this data to keep the new-brunswick community informed, aware, and safe. We are an independent safety data aggregator and not the original creators of the underlying incident report.

Read the full official release here: RCMP Official Statement.