Boardman Police are investigating a report of a man passing a fake $100 bill at a local business on South Avenue.

According to a Boardman Police Department report, the incident happened Monday afternoon. A man bought a $25 vape device with what appeared to be a $100 bill. He received about $73 in genuine cash before leaving.

The store clerk later discovered the bill was not legal currency. The front of the bill was marked with the words "Movie prop use only" and "not legal tender," while the back was labeled "copy."

Police used cameras and vehicle records to identify a person of interest whose image matched the suspect seen in the store.

According to the U.S. Currency Education Program, which is managed by the Federal Reserve Board, "movie money" or prop money is designed to look realistic on camera but is not legal for real purchases. To avoid being a victim of this type of fraud, the program suggests checking several key signs:

  • Read the wording: Authentic bills say, "Federal Reserve Note" and "The United States of America." Prop money often says "For Motion Picture Use Only," "In Copy We Trust," or "Prop Money."
  • Feel the paper: Real U.S. currency is made of a blend of cotton and linen, giving it a unique, slightly rough texture. Most prop money is printed on standard paper, which feels smooth or "slick."
  • Check for raised ink: If you run your fingernail over the portrait on a real bill, you should feel raised ridges from the ink. Fake bills are typically flat and smooth.
  • Look for security features: Hold the bill up to a light to check for a watermark of the portrait and a vertical security thread. Most movie money lacks these features.

The U.S. Currency Education Program encourages businesses to protect themselves by training employees to use the "Look, Feel, Tilt" method. This involves looking for the proper wording, feeling the texture of the paper, and tilting the bill to see if the ink in the corner changes color.

If you suspect someone is trying to pass a fake bill, the U.S. Secret Service advises that you do not put yourself in danger. Note the person's description and any vehicle information, then contact your local police department immediately.