Fraud Squad Urges Vigilance Over Fraudulent Cheques, Online Scams

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The Fraud Squad of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) said it has noted a surge in the instances of fraudulent cheque transactions and online scams, specifically smishing (fraudulent text messages) and phishing (fraudulent emails).

In a Media Release today (Thursday 23rd April, 2026), the TTPS said, “These crimes are affecting unsuspecting individuals and businesses resulting in financial loss, financial accounts being compromised, disruption of business operations and potential legal complications.”

To protect yourself against fraudulent cheques, members of the public are strongly advised to:

  • Verify cheque authenticity directly with the issuing bank before acceptance.
  • Exercise caution with unusually large or urgent payments.
  • Train staff to recognize red flags such as mismatched details or suspicious endorsements.
  • Businesses should conduct customer due diligence (if it’s a first-time customer) before accepting cheques and handing over property.
  • Report any suspected fraudulent activity immediately to their financial institution or local Police Station or Fraud Squad.
  • Fraudulent cheques can be difficult to detect at first glance, but careful verification can prevent serious financial harm.
  • Anyone who suspects they have received a fraudulent cheque should contact their bank or report the matter to the Fraud Squad, without delay.

With regard to online scams, members of the public are strongly advised to:

  • Avoid clicking on links or attachments in suspicious emails or text messages.
  • Verify communications directly with the institution using official contact channels.
  • Never share personal or banking details via text or email.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication and use strong, unique passwords.
  • Report suspicious messages immediately to their bank or the Police.

The TTPS notes that smishing and phishing scams are “evolving rapidly, and vigilance is the best defense. Citizens should treat unexpected messages with caution and verify before responding.”

The Fraud Squad says anyone who suspects they have received a fraudulent message should forward it to their bank’s fraud department and report the incident to the nearest Police Station.

Please be guided accordingly.

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