Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) yesterday warned the public about an increase in counterfeit currency fraud incidents.
Incidents of counterfeit currency fraud in Durham Region were up 121 per cent in 2025 from 2024. This is the result of a large increase seen all across Canada, police said.
It said victims are being fraudulently paid in counterfeit currency after using online platforms such as Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji to make sales. Victims are often selling high end laptops, cell phones, or jewelry and being handed large quantities of counterfeit money without verifying the bills.
The suspects are using fake social media accounts to contact the sellers and then blocking the victim after the exchange, police said.
Police are asking the public to use caution when conducting online buy/sell transactions with strangers, and be knowledgeable about who you are doing business with.
Make sure you are recording user profile names, or account information specific to the person you are speaking with. These include the user URL and profile number. Gather any other information available when possible. Remember to always check the bills you receive as payment to verify they are legitimate, police said.
Anyone who encounters individuals acting suspiciously are encouraged to contact police immediately and record any important details such as vehicle licence plates, clothing descriptions, and directions of travel.
For more information, please visit http://drps.ca.
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