January 16, 2016
1348
(SOUTHERN BRUCE COUNTY, ON) – The South Bruce OPP is warning the public of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) tax scam, following reports from residents in the Municipality of Kincardine and the Municipality of Brockton.
In this scam, a phone call or letter is received from the “CRA," stating that back-taxes are owing and they better be paid up or “further action will be taken.”
Despite numerous warnings about this scam by both police and the CRA, the tax scam has victimized thousands of unsuspecting individuals, and has netted criminals millions of dollars.
A large number of reports have come from seniors, but the South Bruce OPP wants everyone to be aware of these criminals who use threats, intimidation, and deceit, to bully their intended victims.
The CRA says it does not interact with clients in a rude, threatening or harassing manner. It contacts clients by mail and would never request personal information.
The South Bruce OPP is asking you to “spread the word:”
Discuss the CRA scam with elderly or vulnerable neighbours and friends
Ensure that elderly parents and family members are aware of this fraud
Talk about this scam with friends, relatives, customers and clients
If someone mentions back-taxes owed to Revenue Canada, have him/her verify the legitimacy of the transaction, BEFORE he/she pays.
For more about this fraud and many others, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or on-line at: http://www.antifraudcentre.ca.
The South Bruce OPP is requesting anyone with information that can assist police to call 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or send a web-tip to crimestop-gb.org, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
Related Stories
No related stories.