Don’t get scammed!

If you get a call or email that sounds like a scam, it probably is.

When the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) contacts you, it makes sure your personal information is protected.

The CRA will never:

– ask for personal information by email or text message;

– request payment by prepaid credit card;

– share your tax information with another person or organization, unless you have agreed that it can be shared;

– leave personal information on an answering machine;

– threaten with police arrest or use nasty language.

When in doubt, check “My Account” or call 1-800-959-8281.

To learn more about your personal income tax and benefit information, and to manage your tax affairs online, go to www.cra.gc.ca/myaccount.

To report scams, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) online at www.antifraudcentre.ca or toll free at 1-888-495-8501.

If you believe you may be the victim of fraud or have given personal or financial information by mistake, contact your local police service.

For more information, go to www.cra.gc.ca/fraudprevention.

 Canada Revenue Agency, Vancouver