With tax season underway, police are reminding residents to be alert to scams involving individuals posing as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Fraudsters often contact victims by phone, email or text, claiming they owe back taxes or are entitled to a refund. They may use urgent or threatening language and demand immediate payment. Requests for payment by gift cards, cryptocurrency or wire transfer are clear warning signs.
Police remind the public that the CRA does not threaten to arrest or demand payment through gift cards or cryptocurrency.
“The only forms of communication that the CRA utilize is through use of the My CRA login, by text/email notifications advising there is new activity in your My CRA Account, or by registered mail at your last known address,” stated Detective Kris Nicholson with the Barrie Police Service Fraud Unit.
To protect yourself:
- Do not share personal or banking information with unsolicited callers.
- Do not click on suspicious links or attachments.
- Verify any tax-related request by contacting the CRA directly through official channels.
- Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication on online accounts.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized is encouraged to report the incident to police and online with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Staying cautious and verifying information can help prevent financial loss during tax season.
