Avoid these CRA-related Scams

Taxes can be confusing and stressful enough, but criminals have created scams related to your taxes and gaining access to your CRA My Account.

So, with your taxes submitted now, it is important to be on the lookout not just for a refund but also for potential scammers to gain access to your information and money.

Tax Refund Scam

Scammers target individuals by text message or email, claiming that the CRA is sending them a tax refund or credit and requiring your personal information to proceed with depositing the funds.

This is a scam, as your refund will be automatically mailed to you or deposited directly into your account. Do not reply to the text or email, and do not click any links. 

Accessing your 'My Account'

Scammers pretend there is an error with your CRA account and require your information to remedy the situation. They are trying to steal your information and access your account.

If you receive a text message like this, do not reply to the text or provide them with your personal or financial information. You should also not click any links in the message. 

More information on CRA-related scams can be found on the Alberta Provincial Rural Crime Watch Association website here.

CRA Scam Alerts

The CRA will never:

• Ask you by text message or email for your personal information, bank information, or payments by e-transfers or gift cards
• Use text messages or instant messages to start a conversation with you
• Accept payment through cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, prepaid credit cards, or gift cards

For more information on CRA Scam Alerts, head to their website: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/corporate/security/protect-yourself-against-fraud/scam-alerts.html

Information provided by the Alberta Provincial Rural Crime Watch Association.