(NORTHUMBERLAND, ON) – As Canadians begin preparing their 2025 income tax returns, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reminding the public to stay vigilant against Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) impersonation scams, particularly phishing emails and text messages designed to steal personal and financial information.
According to the Canada Revenue Agency, scammers frequently impersonate CRA employees and may contact victims by phone, email, text message, or through fake websites designed to look official. The CRA confirms that it will never send refunds by e transfer or text message, request personal or financial information by email or voicemail, or pressure you to click links to receive benefits or avoid penalties. If you wish to learn more, please visit: Recognize a scam – Scams and fraud – CRA – Canada.ca
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre continues to receive high volumes of reports involving tax-related fraud, noting that fraudsters increasingly use phishing messages, spoofed caller ID numbers, and official looking CRA branding to trick victims into sharing sensitive information. The CAFC stresses that it does not contact individuals to request money or personal information, and encourages all Canadians to report suspicious activity. For more information, please visit: Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
Common Tactics Used in CRA Scams
Residents should be cautious if they receive:
• Emails or text messages with links urging you to “claim your refund,” “update your tax account,” or “avoid account suspension.” Scammers often use threats or promises of refunds to pressure victims into clicking fraudulent links.
• Phone calls demanding immediate payment or threatening arrest, deportation, or legal action-tactics scammers commonly use to intimidate victims. The CRA states it will never threaten arrest or use aggressive language.
• Fake websites imitating CRA login pages, often using unusual domain endings or extra characters (e.g., “cra-login-canada.com” or “crareturnreview.cfd”). Official CRA sites always start with canada.ca or end in .gc.ca
How to Recognize a Scam
You may be dealing with a scam if someone:
• Sends you a link and asks you to click it.
• Requests personal details such as SIN, banking information, or passport numbers. Scammers frequently claim this information is needed to release a refund or confirm eligibility.
• Asks for payment by cryptocurrency, gift cards, or e transfer which are methods the CRA does not accept.
• Claims to be calling from the CRA but refuses to provide a callback number or identity verification.
Protect Yourself
• Do not click on links in emails or texts claiming to be from CRA or tax software providers.
• Verify communications by contacting the CRA directly using the official numbers listed on Canada.ca.
• Check the web address carefully before logging into any tax related portal.
• Monitor your CRA MyAccount regularly for suspicious activity.
• Report scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at antifraudcentre.ca.
If You’re Unsure
• Hang up, delete the message, and contact CRA yourself.
• Consult family, friends, or trusted community members before acting on unexpected tax-related communications-especially if messages feel urgent or threatening.
If you believe you have been targeted by a CRA related scam, whether or not you shared personal information, you are urged to report the matter. The Canadian Anti Fraud Centre advises all Canadians to report any scam or attempted scam, even if no money was lost. Reporting helps law enforcement identify patterns and prevent further victimization.
Victims should:
• Report the incident to the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre at antifraudcentre.ca or by phone.
• Contact the CRA directly if you believe your tax account or personal information may have been compromised. CRA provides guidance on what to do if you suspect identity theft, including monitoring and protecting your CRA accounts.
• Preserve any suspicious emails, texts, or call details to assist investigators.
The OPP reminds residents that they are not alone. Fraudsters are highly sophisticated, and anyone can fall victim. Prompt reporting is essential in helping police and federal agencies combat these crimes and keep our communities safe.
