Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Phone Scams

A scammer posing as an official from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) demands payment.

How it works

To get money or personal information from the taxpayer, the scam artist threatens and uses aggressive and forceful language to scare someone into paying a fake debt. The fraudster requests immediate payment and threatens the taxpayer with court charges, jail or deportation.

Alternatively, you may receive a text message or email saying you have a refund waiting for you. It typically includes a link that will lead you to a fake website set up to steal your personal and financial information.

How to protect yourself

The CRA never requests payments by prepaid credit cards, cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin), iTunes cards or other gift cards. They also will not request information from your passport, health card or driver’s licence. If you get such a request, it’s a scam.  

How to report it

If you suspect you’re a victim of this CRA scam, or attempted CRA scam, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, and your local police or RCMP.

The Commission is responsible for the administration, education and enforcement of provincial legislation that regulates securities, insurance, pensions, credit unions and certain consumer services. If your complaint relates to an area outside of the Commission's regulated areas, we may refer you to the appropriate reporting agency or organization.