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As Canadians begin preparing their 2025 income tax returns, police are warning the public about a spike in scams involving fraudsters posing as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Fake emails, texts and phone calls
Police say scammers are sending fake emails, text messages and making phone calls designed to trick people into handing over personal or financial information.
Officials are reminding residents that the real Canada Revenue Agency will not send refunds by e-transfer or text message. The agency will also never ask for social insurance numbers, banking details or passport information through email or voicemail.
Threats of arrest, aggressive language and payment demands using cryptocurrency, gift cards or e-transfers are signs of a scam, says police.
Suspicious links, URLs and unusual websites
Fraudsters may also point victims to fake websites that resemble official CRA login pages but use altered web addresses.
The community is advised not to click on suspicious links and to verify any unexpected or weird communication by contacting the CRA directly through official phone numbers.
Police also say people should also monitor their ‘CRA My Account’ for unusual activity and carefully check website URLs before entering personal information.
“If you believe you’ve been targeted or shared information, report it immediately,” says police. “Fraudsters are sophisticated and anyone can be a victim.”
People who receive a suspicious call or message are advised to hang up and contact the CRA at 1-800-959-8281. Scams can be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.