Police are warning residents to stay vigilant as tax season brings an increase in scams involving individuals impersonating the Canada Revenue Agency.
Barrie Police say fraudsters may contact victims by phone, email or text, claiming they owe back taxes or are eligible for a refund. Investigators say these scams often involve urgent or threatening language, with requests for payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency or wire transfers.
“The only forms of communication that the CRA utilize is through use of the My CRA login, by text/email notifications advising there is new activity in your My CRA Account, or by registered mail at your last known address,” says Detective Kris Nicholson with the Barrie Police Service Fraud Unit.
Police are reminding residents not to share personal or banking information with unsolicited contacts, avoid clicking suspicious links, and verify any tax-related requests directly through official CRA channels. Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized is encouraged to report the incident to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre as awareness efforts continue during tax season.
