Attorney General Patrick Morrisey is alerting consumers about a series of counterfeit bills that are in circulation in Charleston and throughout the state. A bank in Charleston recently made his office aware of a large number of $10 bills – all with the serial number IL 31448733B – being used throughout the area at various stores.
“Across the country, and in West Virginia, hundreds of consumers find themselves the victims of counterfeit currency,” Attorney General Morrisey said. “Our Office hopes to help people learn how to spot these fake bills, and know what steps they should take if they do find one.”
The U.S. Secret Service offers the following tips if you receive a counterfeit bill:
• Do not return it to the person who gave it to you.
• Observe their description, as well as that of any companions, and the license plate numbers of any vehicles used.
• Write your initials and the date in the white border area of the suspicious note. Limit handling by then placing it in a protective covering, such as an envelope.
• Contact your local police department or the Charleston field office of the U.S. Secret Service at 304-347-5188 to surrender the note or coin. Ensure that you turn over the counterfeit money only to properly identified officers.
If you have questions about suspicious documents or currency, or have possibly been a victim of a scam involving them, please call the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-368-8808 or visit www.wvago.gov.