Identifying counterfeit money can be challenging and counterfeiters are continually improving their techniques. We want to help you protect yourself from accepting counterfeit money and experiencing a loss. There are several security features on genuine banknotes that you can use to help spot counterfeit money.

Here are some tips on how to identify counterfeit currency:

1. Feel the paper: Genuine currency is typically printed on special paper that has a distinct texture and feel. It should feel slightly rough to the touch, not smooth or glossy like regular printer paper.
2. Check for watermark: Hold the banknote up to the light to see if it has a watermark. A watermark is a faint image or pattern that becomes visible when you hold the bill up to the light. The watermark should match the portrait on the bill.
3. Look for security threads: Most genuine banknotes have a thin, embedded security thread that runs vertically through the bill. Hold the bill up to the light, and you should see the thread with text or a denomination repeated on it.
4. Examine the color-shifting ink: Some denominations have ink that changes color when tilted. For example, on the new U.S. $100 bill, the “100” changes from copper to green when tilted.
5. Inspect the microprinting: Genuine banknotes often have tiny, intricate text that is difficult for counterfeiters to replicate. Use a magnifying glass, if necessary, to check for microprinting.
6. Feel for raised print: On most modern banknotes, certain elements, like the denomination or the Treasury seal, have raised ink that you can feel with your fingers.
7. Check for ultraviolet (UV) features: Under a UV light source, genuine banknotes may display fluorescent patterns or markings. Counterfeit notes may not react the same way under UV light.
8. Verify the security thread’s location: Ensure that the security thread is in the correct location for the denomination of the banknote. Different denominations may have different positions for the thread.
9. Examine the holograms or color-shifting images: Some newer U.S. notes, have holograms or color-shifting images that change when you tilt the bill.
10. Be cautious of irregularities: Look for any irregularities, such as blurred or uneven printing, missing security features, or unusual colors. Counterfeiters often make mistakes that can be detected upon close inspection.
11. Compare with a genuine note: If you suspect a bill may be counterfeit, compare it with a known genuine note of the same denomination and series. Look for differences in design, size, and security features.
12. Trust your instincts: If something about a banknote doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and exercise caution.

If you believe you have received counterfeit money or are unsure about a banknote’s authenticity, contact your local law enforcement for assistance. Handling counterfeit money is illegal, and it’s crucial to report it to the authorities.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many lower-income workers lost their jobs, local food pantries have been inundated with more families seeking food. Feeding Our Neighbors Campaign Works to Support Local Food Pantries.

To support local pantry efforts, United Way of Whitewater Valley is launching a focused fundraising campaign starting August 22 – September 30^th to address our region’s increased need for healthy food during this challenging time for many families. The “Feeding our Neighbors Campaign” will support 4 local food pantries across the 2 counties served by United Way of Whitewater Valley – Wayne and Union counties with funds to purchase additional food and necessities for distributions.

Natco Credit Union is partnering with United Way of Whitewater Valley to be a matching sponsor.  Natco will match every dollar donated 1:1 up to $5,000.

“There is great power when we all come together to meet our communities’ critical needs and that’s what food insecurity is for our friends and neighbors – critical” United Way of Whitewater Valley President Tamara Brinkman said. “Donations of food are great and are needed but when we give money to our local pantries, they have the ability to supplement what they are giving out with exactly what they need when they need it.”

Pantries that will benefit from funds raised include Circle U, Gateway Hunger Relief Center in Wayne County and College Corner Food Pantry in Union County.  Our sponsor, Natco Credit Union, has also designated Sylvan Nook Church as a recipient of funds.

Persons wishing to make a donation to the “Feeding Our Neighbor” campaign may direct their donations to the “Feeding our Neighbors Campaign”, c/o United Way of Whitewater Valley, 129 S. 9^th St. Richmond, IN 47374.  Online contributions can be made by texting FEEDUWWV to 91999 or visiting www.givetheunitedway.com.

All contributions are tax-deductible.

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