Fraser Valley – How low can one go?
RCMP is reminding everyone to remain mindful of criminals posing as Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) employees to steal money.
The scam follows a pattern where an unexpected contact is received from an individual identifying themselves as a representative of the CRA. As the fraud unfolds, the caller aggressively attempts to solicit the victim’s credit information or payment for delinquent income taxes.
“The call or correspondence appears urgent and authentic,” says Corporal Mike Rail spokesperson for the UFVRD. “If contacted we urge you to pause a moment – hang up the phone – and speak to a family member or friend before responding.”
Tips to protect yourself from tax fraud:
· CRA officials will not request personal information by telephone or email
· CRA does not demand payment by prepaid credit card
· CRA does not threaten a client with court charges, jail or deportation
To confirm you have been contacted by a CRA representative the public is encouraged to contact the CRA at 1-800-959-8281 for individual concerns or 1-800-959-5525 for business related calls.
For more information on how to protect yourself from fraud visit bcrcmp or CRA or Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFA) online.
Follow us on twitter @UFVRD_RCMP.
