Ministry Warns Businesses to be Vigilant of Counterfeit Welfare Cheque Scams

An urgent advisory has been issued by the Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services, warning businesses, financial institutions, supermarkets, and shopkeepers about fraudulent activities involving counterfeit social welfare cheques. There have been instances of individuals attempting to cash forged cheques using various names and identification numbers. The ministry is urging businesses to carefully examine all cheques and identification cards presented for payment and verify that the presenter matches the information on the documents.

Included in the advisory are a list of names and identification numbers that authorities say are linked to suspected fraudulent activities. Fraudsters often rely on inattentiveness and may use false or stolen identification documents to facilitate their scam. Officials are calling on establishments across Trinidad and Tobago to exercise extreme vigilance when processing welfare cheques.

Businesses are being encouraged to immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or the Ministry’s Investigation and Compliance Unit. This warning comes as part of a broader effort by authorities to combat cheque fraud and protect public funds. Businesses are also being urged to strengthen their verification procedures and remain alert to suspicious transactions.

The Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the social welfare system, expressing gratitude towards businesses and members of the public for their cooperation in helping to identify and prevent fraudulent activity.