The CRA says it will never issue refunds by e transfer or text message, request personal or financial information by email or voicemail, or pressure people to click links to avoid penalties or receive benefits.
Ontario Provincial Police are warning residents to stay alert as reports of Canada Revenue Agency themed scams increase during tax season.
Police say scammers are impersonating the Canada Revenue Agency through emails, text messages, phone calls and fake websites designed to look official. These messages often attempt to steal personal or financial information by creating a sense of urgency.
The CRA says it will never issue refunds by e transfer or text message, request personal or financial information by email or voicemail, or pressure people to click links to avoid penalties or receive benefits.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre continues to receive a high volume of tax related fraud reports. Investigators say scammers frequently use phishing messages, spoofed phone numbers and official looking branding to deceive victims. The centre stresses it does not contact individuals to request money or personal information.
Common CRA scam tactics include
Emails or texts urging recipients to claim a refund, update an account, or avoid suspension
Phone calls demanding immediate payment or threatening arrest or legal action
Fake websites that mimic CRA login pages but use unusual web addresses
Red flags to watch for
Requests for SIN numbers, banking details or passport information
Demands for payment using cryptocurrency, gift cards or e transfer
Callers claiming to be from CRA who refuse to provide verification or a callback number
How to protect yourself
Do not click links in unsolicited tax related messages
Verify communications by contacting CRA directly through Canada.ca
Carefully check website addresses before logging in
Monitor your CRA MyAccount for suspicious activity
Report scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
Anyone who believes they have been targeted, even if no money was lost, is encouraged to report the incident. Police say reporting scams helps investigators identify patterns and prevent others from becoming victims.
The OPP remind residents that fraudsters are sophisticated and anyone can be targeted, adding that prompt reporting plays a key role in keeping communities safe.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)