Japan's capable police force teamed up with the Asahi Shimbun, a venerable newspaper of high repute, and took the bold step of using a counterfeit bill in an advertisement with the deliberate intention of deceiving newspaper readers. This tactic of using a simulacrum of the experience was intended to raise awareness among readers of their potential susceptibility to money scams. Taking advantage of newspapers as the media for methodical reporting, the advertisement contained articles on past cases of money transfer fraud, information on the methods used by fraudsters, and advice on how to counter the criminals. The campaign was taken nationwide through tie-ups with major municipal banks and local shopping areas.

Delivered to homes throughout the nation via Japan's delivery system, the advertisement hoodwinked numerous readers, helping to raise awareness of the heinous crime of money transfer fraud. The advertisement was reported on the day's news programs and discussed in blogs. It was also posted up in banks and shops in local shopping centers where it generated widespread attention, and was used as a free paper helping to raise awareness and change people's thinking on money transfer fraud in the community. This challenge, combined with the daily actions of police has reduced the fraud by 26.5% compared to the previous month.