WARNING: Counterfeit money that passes ‘pen test’ circulating in Abilene

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Counterfeit money that passes the “pen test” is circulating in Abilene.

The Abilene Police Department is warning business owners about a “dramatic increase” in these counterfeit money cases over the past 3 years. The department now sees an average of 600 cases a year.

These cases often involve businesses that are less prepared to spot fake money, so police are encouraging business owners to invest in digital currency scanners.

“They range from $20 up to $100 or more. This simple investment can help stores to dramatically decrease their chances of being scammed,” the press release states.

Police say scammers get the bills to pass the “pen test” by washing legitimate bills and printing larger denominations on them.

Anyone caught trying to pass any kind of counterfeit money is subject to criminal charges on both the state and federal level.