A crossed cheque is a cheque marked with two parallel transverse lines, typically on the top-left corner. This instruction tells the bank that the funds cannot be paid in cash over the counter and must instead be deposited directly into a bank account. This provides several benefits for Indian users:
- Enhanced Security: It prevents unauthorized individuals from cashing the cheque if it is lost or stolen.
- Traceability: Since the amount is credited to a bank account, it creates a clear paper trail of the transaction.
- Fraud Prevention: It ensures that only the intended beneficiary or their banker can handle the funds.