How to spot fake Canadian bills

Last updated: August 24, 2026.

Canadian polymer notes have security features you can check in seconds, in daylight (another reason to trade during the day):

1. Transparent window — a large clear window runs through the note with a metallic portrait and building; tilt it and colors shift.
2. Raised ink — feel the large number and the shoulders of the main portrait; genuine notes have distinct raised texture.
3. Metallic portrait match — the small metallic portrait in the window matches the large printed portrait.
4. Maple leaf window — look through the frosted maple leaf; a hidden number matching the denomination appears when held to light.
5. Feel: polymer is smooth and slightly stretchy-stiff, never paper-fibrous.

If anything fails: decline the bill, offer to accept e-transfer instead, and don't hand over the item.

For $100s on high-value items, prefer e-transfer completed and settled in front of you (see the e-transfer tip: confirm the deposit notification in YOUR banking app, not a screenshot on theirs).

Not financial advice; when unsure, walk away.

Something felt off? Read about 8 common scammer patterns on local marketplaces, or report a problem.