CRA HELPS TAXPAYERS TO STAY ALERT OF THE LATEST SCAMS

NOT SURE IF THE CRA IS CONTACTING ME OR IF IT’S A SCAM. WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF THE LATEST TAX RELATED SCAMS?
 
Being aware of the latest scams and techniques being used to commit fraud will help protect you against information theft and financial loss. The CRA has a scams and fraud web page and uses social media platforms to share updates and information about scams and fraudulent activities. These are some of the latest scams being used:
 
CRA payment scam by text message: A text message of an image with the Government of Canada logo claiming to be from the CRA offering a fraudulent Interac e-transfer deposit. A separate text message containing a link to a realistic impersonation of a sign-in portal for financial institutions is sent.

Messages containing personal information: A message claiming to be from the CRA, requesting a payment or containing a link. It includes personal information such as your name, date of birth, or Social Insurance Number.

GST/HST tax refund/credit scam: A text message or an email, claiming to be from the CRA is sent, giving you a GST/HST tax refund or credit. You are asked to provide personal information to proceed.

Scam to access CRA accounts: A text message claiming to be the CRA is used to gain access to your CRA accounts. Message will say there is an error with your account, which will need to be updated. You are asked to text back “HELP”, then may be asked to provide personal information. 

Additional resources
The CRA provides resources to keep taxpayers safe. Refer to the following link Security and privacy of your information with the CRA for more information.