MANITOULIN – The Manitoulin Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is asking members of the public to be aware of the following fraudulent activity related to individuals claiming they are calling from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
In this instance fraudsters are calling homeowners and indicating that a criminal investigation has been conducted and arrest warrants were being prepared stemming from overdue taxes owed to the government. The fraudsters represent themselves as an agent of the CRA to legitimize their fraudulent attempts to get residents to send them money and gain valuable personal information in the process.
These criminals are looking for your personal information in hopes of defrauding you from your hard earned money. They usually have some information that they have gained through public online sites in an attempt to give you a sense of trust so they may gain more pertinent information such as: your date of birth, bank account information, credit card numbers, passwords or PIN numbers.
The following is some information that will assist you in protecting yourself against fraudsters.
- Be vigilant when anyone contacts you representing an agency asking for personal information. Legitimate agencies that you are dealing with already have your information.
- It is highly recommended that you do not share your personal information over communication devices.
- Be aware that fraudsters use pressure tactics and residents should not feel pressured to give out any information or transfer any funds at any time.
- Screen your calls to determine who is calling.
- Fraudsters sometimes use local numbers in an attempt to get you on the phone.
- The minute you recognize your caller’s fraudulent intention, hang up.
Fraudsters are skilled in getting your information and achieving their goal to defraud you. Don’t become a victim. Be informed, be vigilant and stay in control.
