Nipawin RCMP have received numerous complaints from area residents of an ongoing scam. Callers allegedly identify themselves as members of the Nipawin RCMP detachment, stating to be calling regarding taxes owed to Canada Revenue Agency by the targeted victim.
The callers are requesting personal information such as bank account details and social insurance numbers, using the fear of being arrested, to get residents to give them the personal information. A Nipawin RCMP member has confirmed that some area residents have fallen victim to the caller and provided them with that information.
Nipawin RCMP would like to clarify that these calls are not originating with any member of the Nipawin RCMP detachment. The CRA will not threaten to send police to have you arrested for tax arrears.
Remember, you can Stop Phone Fraud – Just Hang Up!
You can report telephone and other types of scams through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website or call their toll-free line at 1-888-495-8501
If you have given a suspicious caller any personal banking information, report it to your financial institution immediately
Canada Revenue Agency will never:
* use aggressive or threatening language.
* threaten you with arrest or send police.
* ask for payments via prepaid credit cards or gift cards, such as ITunes, Home Depot, etc.
* collect or distribute payments through Interac e-transfer.
* use text messages to communicate under any circumstances.Source: https://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/eic/site/cb-bc.nsf/eng/04333.html
If you receive a call, letter, email or text saying you owe money to the CRA, you can also double check online via “My Account” or call 1-800-959-8281.
If your social insurance number has also been stolen, contact Service Canada at 1-800-206-7218.
Learn more about various types of fraud and scams and how to protect yourself with the Competition Bureau’s The Little Black Book of Scams
