by Kendal Steele

Tax NewsFebruary 16, 20231 comment

How to Spot and Avoid Sophisticated Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Scams

As technology evolves, so do the techniques used by scammers to trick individuals into giving up their personal and financial information. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is no exception to this rule, as scammers continue to create sophisticated schemes to deceive unsuspecting victims. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of CRA scams and provide tips on how to spot and avoid them.

Types of CRA Scams

Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are the most common type of CRA scam. They involve scammers posing as the CRA and contacting individuals through email, text message, or phone call. The scammers use fake or stolen information to make their communication seem legitimate. They often try to scare individuals by claiming they owe back taxes and threatening legal action if payment is not made immediately.

Identity Theft

Identity theft is another type of CRA scam that involves scammers stealing an individual’s personal information, such as their social insurance number, in order to commit fraud. This information can be obtained through phishing scams or other means. Scammers can use this information to file false tax returns or apply for credit in the individual’s name.

Malware Scams

Malware scams involve scammers using malware to infect an individual’s computer or device. Once infected, the scammers can access the individual’s personal and financial information. They may also use the malware to display fake CRA notifications or pop-ups, encouraging individuals to enter their personal information.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is no exception to this rule, as scammers continue to create sophisticated schemes to deceive unsuspecting victims. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of CRA scams and provide tips on how to spot and avoid them.

Tips on How to Spot and Avoid CRA Scams

Verify the Identity of the Caller

If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from the CRA, ask for their name and employee number. You can then verify their identity by calling the CRA directly. If the caller is legitimate, they should have no problem with you verifying their identity.

Be Cautious of Unsolicited Emails

The CRA will never send unsolicited emails asking for personal or financial information. If you receive an email from the CRA asking for this information, it is likely a phishing scam. Do not click on any links or provide any information.

Keep Personal Information Secure

Be cautious of sharing your personal information, especially your social insurance number, with anyone. If you are unsure if the request for information is legitimate, contact the CRA directly to confirm.

Install Anti-Virus Software

Installing anti-virus software on your computer or device can help protect you from malware scams. Make sure to keep the software up to date and run regular scans.

Report Suspected Scams

If you suspect you have been targeted by a CRA scam, report it to the CRA’s Fraudulent Activities Division. You can also report the scam to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

CRA scams are a serious threat that can result in the loss of personal and financial information. By following the tips provided in this article, you can help protect yourself from these scams. Always be cautious of unsolicited communication and verify the identity of anyone claiming to be from the CRA. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry.