I Just Called to Scam You

How to determine if it’s CRA on the line.

Over the past few years, scam phone calls from individuals claiming to be from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) have increased. As we approach the time of year to file personal tax returns, these calls become more frequent as scammers seek to take advantage of the tax season.

These scam callers can seem quite legitimate and often use intimidation to gather information.

If you think the call may be a scam, the best option is to hang up and contact CRA directly on their main personal or business lines. An agent at CRA should be able to review your file and confirm if the call was legitimate.

Real CRA agents have policies and scripts which they are required to follow. If the call you receive deviates from the below, you may have been contacted by a scammer:

1. A CRA agent will always identify themselves by name.
2. The CRA will never “confirm your identity” with information that is not available on your personal tax return (ex. a credit card number).
3. The CRA will never issue threats of arrest or sending law enforcement. Most scam callers will become angry or argumentative if questioned.
4. The CRA will never request payment of taxes in the form of gift cards, cryptocurrency, or any other unusual form of payment.
5. The CRA will never contact you to recommend or assist in applying for benefits.

If you are unsure about the caller, ask and make note of the following information:

• Name
• Agent ID
• Phone Number
• Office Location

If the caller refuses to or cannot provide this information, it is very likely a scam.

The CRA phone numbers are:

Personal – 1-800-959-8281

Business – 1-800-959-5525

For more information on reasons CRA may contact you and how to report a potential scam, please follow the link below:

https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/news/newsroom/tax-tips/tax-tips-2022/not-sure-cra-calling-here-how-to-find-out.html

* This article was prepared on January 27, 2023. Content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used as professional advice. Each taxpayer’s circumstances are unique. Bokhaut CPA makes no representation as to the accuracy and completeness of the information in this article and will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information.