From the Kansas City Star - the article is linked here:

The point of the article is that counterfeiting isn't what it used to be.  The "ART" has been lost and most bills are recognizable, given a little instruction - EASILY identifiable!!!

What I found crazy is that if you receive one, it is AGAINST THE LAW to give it back AND you MUST take the hit yourself!  CRAZY!

What to do when given a phony bill
Counterfeiters can get merchants, bartenders or others in legal trouble.

 

“A” said lot of people give back the bill and say, ‘Give me a real one,’ Secret Service Agent Charles Green. “That’s against the law.”

The law says victims have to take the money, turn it in and not get reimbursed.

“It’s not the best way to encourage people,” Green admitted.

The Secret Service has this advice for anyone who suspects a counterfeit bill:

•Keep the bill from the passer.

•Delay the passer with some excuse, if possible without putting yourself in danger.

•Contact police.

•Observe the passer’s description and that of any companion.

•Handle the bill as little as possible to preserve fingerprints.

•Write your initials and date on an unprinted edge on the front of the bill and surrender it to         police or the Secret Service.