A Northern Minnesota police department is warning businesses and the general public about multiple reports of counterfeit $100 bills being used in the area.

In a social media post from the Virginia, Minnesota Police Department on July 22, the department is alerting business owners and their employees about these reports and what to look for.

While the bills do look pretty realistic at a passing glance, a thorough examination of these bills will reveal that they are indeed not real currency.

The department says reports of these bills popping up at businesses have come in from around the Virginia area on the Iron Range.

The department shares that the fake bills have a pretty distinct giveaway. The phrase "Motion Picture Purposes" is printed on the front and back. In addition, all the counterfeit bills share the same serial number, PM25782181 I, on the front.

Virginia Police Department/Canva
Virginia Police Department/Canva
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Also, in smaller print on the bottom of the bills on the back, it says "Prop Money, Inc."

Virginia Police Department/Canva
Virginia Police Department/Canva
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While at a quick glance, they may look real, they do have pretty recognizable indications that they are fake if you take the time to examine the bills - as many businesses often do with larger-value bills.

The department commented, "Please make your employees aware and please call 911 to report any instances".

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The department did not share the number of incidents, but did say they have received "several reports".

With these bills popping up on the Iron Range, it is a good reminder to all businesses and their employees that it is a good everyday practice to be sure to look closely at currency before accepting it.

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