Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is alerting Humboldt County residents and businesses that a significant number of counterfeit $100 bills have been seized by our deputies over the past several weeks. Residents and local businesses are encouraged to familiarize themselves with key security features to help identify fake currency by using the Look, Feel, and Tilt method.

• Feel the paper: Genuine U.S. currency is printed on a special cotton-linen blend that feels slightly rough and textured, not smooth or waxy like regular paper. 
• Color-shifting ink: Tilt the bill and look at the number “100” in the lower right corner. On a real bill, it will shift from copper to green. 
• 3D security ribbon: A blue ribbon is woven into the paper (not printed on top). When you tilt the bill, the bells and “100s” on the ribbon should move. 
• Watermark: Hold the bill up to the light to see a faint image of Benjamin Franklin on the right side. This watermark should be visible from both sides. 
• Security thread: A vertical security strip embedded in the bill should be visible when held to the light and will glow pink under UV light. 
• Microprinting: Look closely for very small text (such as “USA 100”) around Franklin’s portrait and other areas. Counterfeit bills often lack this detail or appear blurry. 
• Raised printing: Real bills have slightly raised ink, especially on Franklin’s portrait and the lettering. 

If you believe you have received a counterfeit bill, contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and provide as much information as possible about whom, where and how you received it.

Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.