Got a call or email from the CRA? Make sure it’s real!
If you get a text message or an email from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) claiming you’re entitled to an extra refund, and all you need to do is provide your banking details, be on alert. This too good to be true opportunity is a tax scam. But wait - there’s more. In another variation, you will receive a phone call to say that you owe the CRA money and that you need to pay right away, or else they will report you to the police. If you ever receive a call, letter, email or text saying you owe money to the CRA, you can double check online via “My Account” or call 1-800-959-8281.
Tips to protect yourself
The CRA will never:
Use aggressive or threatening language.
Threaten you with arrest or send police.
Ask for payments via prepaid credit cards, or gift cards, such as iTunes, Home Depot, etc.
Collect or distribute payments through Interac e-transfer.
Use text messages to communicate under any circumstances.
Emails from the CRA never request financial information.
NEVER PROVIDE FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The CRA’s accepted payment methods are:
If you suspect a scam, always report it to the CRA, the Canada Anti-Fraud Centre, and the police.