Kingston Police warn of fake calls claiming to be from CRA

With taxes due in the upcoming days, Kingston Police are reminding the public to be on high alert for fraudulent calls claiming to be from the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA).

“These scammers insist that you owe money to the government. Then, they threaten you with loss of your driver’s license, arrest, or even deportation. Once they’ve caught you off guard, they’ll insist that you send the money using a prepaid card or wire transfer. Don’t do it!” Kingston Police said in a press release on Wednesday, Apr. 3, 2019.

Police recommend citizens remember the following:

• The CRA will never require a specific type of payment such as bitcoin or gift cards.
• The CRA will generally mail a bill to any taxpayer who owes taxes, and you will always have the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed before sending a payment.
• Do not share any type of personal information with anyone you don’t know over the phone especially your Social Insurance Number.
• If you get this type of call, hang up the phone immediately and report the call to the appropriate agency.

“Fraudsters are becoming even more brazen and their schemes are constantly evolving,” Kingston Police said. “Don’t be fooled.”