The number of unsecured bank checks in Cyprus has noticeably decreased. According to the latest data from the Central Bank, only 8 such checks were registered in February 2026. For comparison, there were 34 in February last year. The total amount of checks without coverage in February 2026 amounted to 47,460 euros.
These data were published by the Central Bank of Cyprus as part of an update to the preliminary list of the Central Information Register. This list includes individuals and companies that issue checks without sufficient funds in their accounts. The decrease in the number of such cases is viewed as a positive signal for the country’s financial system and may indicate a gradual strengthening of payment discipline among businesses and private individuals.
Comparison with previous years
Statistics from recent years show noticeable fluctuations. In February 2025, 34 unsecured checks were recorded with a total amount of 42,493 euros. A year earlier, in February 2024, the number of such cases was 16 checks, and their total value reached 19,388 euros.
Despite the fact that the total amount of checks without coverage in 2026 turned out to be higher than in 2024, the overall number of such documents has significantly decreased compared to last year. Experts note that an important factor is not only the number of checks but also their financial volume.
Results of the first months of 2026
If we consider the period from January to February 2026, then 25 unsecured checks totaling 94,551 euros were included in the preliminary list of the Central Information Register. For the same period in 2025, there were 50 such checks, and their value amounted to 84,555 euros.
This means that the number of problematic checks has almost halved, although their total value has slightly increased. According to analysts, this trend may be due to the fact that larger amounts are more often found in commercial transactions between companies.
Who is included in the Central Bank register
In the first two months of 2026, unsecured checks were associated with 19 individuals. Among them, 14 are legal entities, that is companies, and 5 are natural persons. In February 2026 alone, 7 new participants were added to the Central Information Register system. Of these: 3 are legal entities, 1 is a natural person, and another 3 individuals are listed as controlling persons of companies. In total, 17 people were added to the register in January and February of the current year, whereas in the same period last year there were 18 such individuals.
Why unsecured checks remain an important indicator
In Cyprus, checks are still used in business transactions, especially in certain sectors. If the payer’s account does not have sufficient funds to cover a check, the bank records such a case, and the information is transferred to the Central Register. Being included in this register can seriously affect the financial reputation of a company or individual. Banks and business partners often take such data into account when making decisions about cooperation, issuing loans, or concluding contracts.
In recent years, the banking system of Cyprus has been actively developing electronic payments and digital financial tools. The expansion of online banking, instant transfers, and other modern payment methods is gradually reducing the use of checks. This is why specialists expect that the number of unsecured checks in the country will continue to gradually decline.