Don’t get scammed!

[This handout is also available in PDF format (113 KB).]

Beware of tax fraud schemes. If you get a call or email that sounds like a scam, it probably is.

When the 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 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.

For information on scams or to report deceptive telemarketing, 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.

Date modified:

2016-04-05