CENTRALIA — The Centralia Police Department has received multiple reports of people using or attempting to use counterfeit money in recent weeks, this problem is not confined to the Centralia area as other surrounding agencies are reporting the same problem.

According to Centralia Police Lt. Greg Dodson, the bills being circulated are of average quality but “easily detectable as counterfeit,” as long as preventable measures are taken correctly. Denominations in the amounts of $100, $50 and $20 dollar bills are being seen.

The Centralia Police Department urge businesses to familiarize themselves and their staff with the color, clarity, quality and safety features of American currency so they can detect fake bills. They also urge citizens to use caution and closely inspect any money they are accepting.

Tips for detecting counterfeit money can be found on the U.S. Treasure website, said a press release from CPD. Additionally, devices that help differentiate between real and fake bills, such as the Dri Mark Products Tri-Test Ultraviolet Counterfeit Detection System, can be purchased.

Police advise those who suspect a counterfeit bill or have information about counterfeiting activity to report it immediately to their local police department.