Counterfeit bills found in Boiling Springs

By Chuck Thompson | The Shelby Independent

Boiling Springs Town Hall and Police Department sign out by College Ave. | Chuck Thompson

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C. – Have you checked your wallet for funny money lately?

Counterfeit bills have shown up in Boiling Springs, and the Boiling Springs Police Department want you to be on the lookout for anything funny, or fishy when it comes to currency, as it could spread across the county.

In a statement released earlier today, Thursday, April 30, The Boiling Springs Police Department urged all local businesses to stay vigilant following a recent increase in counterfeit bills being passed in the area.

Boiling Springs Police Chief Brian DiYorio spoke to the Shelby Independent regarding the recent uptick in counterfeit bills, urging caution but not to cause alarm.

“While we have only seen a very slight uptick in counterfeit bills being passed at a few local businesses, we believe in being proactive and keeping our community informed,” noted DiYorio. “Our goal is not to cause alarm, but to ensure our business owners and employees are aware so they can stay vigilant."

"As a police department, we are committed to being strong community partners by sharing timely information that helps protect local businesses, supports public safety, and strengthens the trust we work hard to build everyday,” he added.

The Boiling springs Police Department has a few tips on how to protect your business by taking a few extra precautions:

(Counterfeit bills article continued below...)

File photo

Check all bills carefully for:

• Watermarks

• Security threads

• Color-shifting ink

• Raised printing texture

Use counterfeit detection pens or UV scanners when possible. Train employees on how to identify suspicious currency. Be cautious during busy times when scammers may try to rush transactions.

 If you receive or suspect a counterfeit bill:

• Do not return it to the customer

• Limit handling if possible

• Safely note suspect descriptions

• Contact local law enforcement immediately

“Your awareness can help protect not only your business, but our entire community. If you see something, say something,” the statement concluded.

According to The Federal Reserve Board, the total value of counterfeit U.S. currency in circulation is generally estimated to be around $15 million to $30 million at any given time. Another estimate suggests that up to $70 million-$200 million could be in circulation, though this is considered a higher-end, less recent projection.

Follow The Shelby Independent on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. To contact Chuck about a story idea, send an email or visit the contact page.

Chuck Thompson is a reporter and columnist for The Shelby Independent. 

Copyright 2026, The Shelby Independent.