U.S. Government Video Shows Businesses and Consumers How to Protect Against Counterfeit Currency

The U.S. government is helping businesses and consumers protect themselves against counterfeit currency with a new Web video – “How to Detect a Counterfeit” – released today on www.newmoney.gov. The downloadable video is the second in a series of educational videos created to increase public awareness about the new $100 note, which will begin circulating on February 10, 2011.

“When a business or consumer accepts a counterfeit note, they are the ones who end up losing the money. It is important for the public to be educated about what security features to look for on the new $100 note. By knowing those features, businesses and consumers can be confident they are accepting a genuine note,” said United States Secret Service Criminal Investigative Division Special Agent in Charge Kenneth T. Jenkins.

In the video, Kelley Harris, U.S. Secret Service Supervisory Counterfeit Specialist, discusses how to identify the security features in the redesigned $100 note, including the new 3-D Security Ribbonand the Bell in the Inkwell. Viewers will also learn about common tricks counterfeiters use to fool businesses and consumers, what businesses and consumers should do if they suspect someone is trying to pass them a counterfeit note, and the U.S. Secret Service’s work to combat counterfeiting operations.

Who:
Kelley Harris, Supervisory Counterfeit Specialist, U.S. Secret Service

Where:
The “How to Detect a Counterfeit” video and other educational videos are available for viewing and download at www.newmoney.gov.

Interviews:
One-on-one interviews with Harris and representatives from the Department of the Treasury, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, the Federal Reserve Board and the U.S. Secret Service can be scheduled by calling 202-530-4887.

For a more detailed description of the redesigned $100 note and its features, visit www.newmoney.gov, where you can watch an animated video, click through an interactive note or browse through the multimedia resources for images and B-roll. Stay up-to-date with the latest news and educational resources about the new $100 note by connecting with us on Facebook, Twitter and Youtube.