Institutions are being warned to remain vigilant against fraudulent cheques for senior citizens pension, disability and public assistance.

According to the Social Development Ministry, it has observed a rise in the number of counterfeit cheques being presented for payment within the past few months.

It is urging financial institutions, groceries, district revenue offices and other vendors to pay closer attention and exercise thorough scrutiny when accepting cheques for payment.

The Ministry adds that any cheque determined to be counterfeit will not be honoured by the Central Bank.