Financial Crime World

Title: “CRA Warns Canadians of Increased Scam Activity: Carbon Rebate, Personal Information, and Disaster Benefits”

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has issued a warning to Canadians about an uptick in scams related to various CRA programs and benefits. Below are some common types of scams and how to protect yourself.

Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR) Scam by Text Message

  • Scammers are impersonating the CRA in text messages, asking individuals to click links to claim their CCR.
  • Be wary of messages containing links or using images from Government of Canada social media accounts.
  • The CRA will not use text messages to start conversations about your taxes or benefits.
  • If you receive a suspicious text, do not engage and delete it.

Text Messages and Emails with Personal Information

  • Scammers have been sending fraudulent messages which may include personal information, such as names, dates of birth, and social insurance numbers.
  • These messages often involve requests for payment or a link to click.
  • The CRA will not ask for personal information via text message or email.

Emergency or Disaster Benefit Scams

  • Scammers are targeting those impacted by emergencies or disasters with fraudulent messages from the CRA about emergency benefits, containing a link.
  • The CRA will not use text messages or instant messages to offer emergency benefits.

Grocery Rebate Scam

  • Scammers are sending emails and text messages impersonating the CRA about the Grocery Rebate, with a link to click.
  • The CRA will not ask for personal or financial information to receive the Grocery Rebate.

Cryptocurrency Scam

  • Scammers are targeting individuals by phone, pretending to be from the CRA and demanding payment in cryptocurrency to cancel a supposed RCMP warrant for their arrest.
  • The CRA will not request payment via cryptocurrency or ask for your personal or financial information.

If you believe you have been a victim of a scam or fraud and think your CRA account information has been compromised, visit the CRA’s website for steps to help protect yourself.