San Mateo County police reports: July 3, 2026

Key Takeaways:

• A Safeway on El Camino Real in South San Francisco was the site of a counterfeit attempt
• The suspicious note appeared late on Tuesday, June 30, at 10:36 p.m.
• Police logs for July 3, 2026, document this activity in San Mateo County
• “Faux real?” captures the surprised reaction from the original report
• The story first appeared in the San Mateo Daily Journal

Community Spotlight on Counterfeit Concerns

Incidents of counterfeit currency remain a concern for both businesses and residents. In San Mateo County, local officials urge the community to be cautious when handling cash transactions, especially as late-night commerce can make such situations challenging to detect.

Late-Night Alert at Safeway

According to the July 3, 2026, police summary, a customer attempted to use what appeared to be a counterfeit bill at a Safeway located on El Camino Real in South San Francisco. The transaction took place around 10:36 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, a time when fewer staff members are typically on duty, potentially increasing the risk of such an incident going unnoticed.

Insights from the Police Blotter

The police report’s note, “Faux real? — Someone attempted to use a counterfeit bill,” encapsulates both the curiosity and concern this type of crime generates. While the full details of the investigation are not publicly available, San Mateo County law enforcement officials often include snippets of case information to remind the public that counterfeit currency can appear anywhere.

Remaining Vigilant

As the San Mateo County police reports emphasize, awareness is a key defense against the circulation of fake money. Local authorities, along with store employees, continue to encourage shoppers to check their cash for authentic watermarks and other security features. Any suspected counterfeit note should be reported immediately to the proper authorities to prevent further fraudulent activity in the community.