FRAUD FRIDAY: CRA Tax Frauds

As the number of frauds and scams continues to grow in the Nicola Valley, Merritt & Nicola Valley Crime Stoppers, and Q101 are teaming up to present Fraud Fridays, a feature designed to inform those in the community of the dangers of fraud, what they should look for, and what to do if they are a victim of fraud.

Marlene Jones, chair of the local chapter of Crime Stoppers, says that her organization is making fraud and fraud prevention a top priority in 2026, with hopes to keep the community safe from those looking to scam people out of their money and personal information.

Today’s Fraud Friday: CRA Tax Frauds

What is a CRA Tax Fraud?

A CRA tax scam is when criminals impersonate the Canada Revenue Agency to trick you into giving money or personal information. They often use phone calls, texts, or emails claiming you owe taxes or are entitled to a refund.

 

How They Work

• Impersonation: Scammers pretend to be CRA agents.

• Threats or urgency: They say you owe money and must pay immediately, or you’ll face arrest.

• Refund bait: Some claim you’re owed a tax refund but need to “verify” your banking info.

• Payment demands: They often ask for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.

 

What to Watch For:

• Calls, texts, or emails demanding immediate payment.

• Requests for personal info like SIN, banking details, or passwords.

• Threats of arrest, deportation, or loss of benefits.

• Messages with poor grammar, suspicious links, or unusual payment methods.

 

Steps to Protect Yourself

•Know CRA’s rules: The CRA will never demand payment by gift card, Bitcoin, or threaten arrest.

• Verify directly: Contact CRA through official numbers or your online account.

• Don’t click links in unsolicited emails or texts.

• Hang up immediately if a caller pressures you.

 

What to Do If Targeted

• Stop all contact with the scammer.

• Report the incident to your local police, if you have lost money.

• Notify your bank/credit card provider if you shared financial info.

Bottom line: CRA tax scams thrive on fear and urgency. Stay calm, verify through official channels, and never give personal info or payments to unsolicited contacts.

 

The Merritt & Nicola Valley Crime Stoppers are also looking for volunteers this year to help out with local events. If you can spare just a few hours a month or would like to become more active within the organization by reaching out to Crime Stoppers via their website at www.nicolavalleycrimestoppers.com.