There seems to be an increase lately of scam emails and phone calls going around. Whether they claim to be calling from the CRA or another organization, legitimate callers will NEVER threaten you.

You can find listings of different fraud and scamming schemes on the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website Fraud Types page . You can also download a pdf version of The Little Black Book of Scams – it’s a great quick reference for learning more about potential scammers and about how to protect yourself.

Don’t be afraid to tell the caller that you will get back to them once you have verified their credentials with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Often times, as soon as YOU start asking for THEIR info, they hang up. If you are feeling up to it, try to get as much contact information as you can about the caller (without giving away any of your own!) in order to have as much as possible to pass on to the appropriate authorities.

On their website, the RCMP have listed ways to report scams and fraud. I’ve copied it below for easier reference.

If you have not lost any money and have not provided personal or financial information (relating to a fraud or scam), and you simply want to inform the appropriate organizations, report it to the Canadian Anti-fraud Centre (CAFC) by calling 1-888-495-8501.

If you received a fraudulent e-mail soliciting personal or financial information (phishing scam), you should also advise the financial institution or other agency whose name was used.

If you are a victim of fraud or if you unwittingly provided personal or financial information (identity fraud), follow the steps in our Victim Assistance Guide .

If you are a victim of fraud and it is not related to identity fraud, contact the police service of jurisdiction in your area.

Always report fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre on-line by visiting the CAFC website or by calling 1-888-495-8501.

If you ever have questions or concerns, contact my office and we will assist you in whatever way we can.

Quick Links:

Report an Incident
Protect Yourself Guidelines
Fraud Types
Little Black Book of Scams