CRA scam in Summerland

Photo: Contributed

With tax season approaching, the Summerland RCMP have been receiving an increased number of calls related to the Canada Revenue Agency scams.

The scammers typically call targets, providing them with limited information about them, alleging they owe money to the CRA and that a warrant is being issued for their arrest.

The caller provides a callback number and demands the victim immediately call, where a second person attempts to gain the victim's personal information.

RCMP spokeswoman Cpl. Janelle Shoihet advises that these calls are not being made by the CRA and warrants are not issued by the CRA for unpaid debts,

People should also avoid providing personal details over the phone, even if the caller uses your name.

Those who receive a call from someone purporting to be from the CRA or any other government agency, should take the following steps to ensure their validity:

• If the phone has call display, record the number and the location the call is coming from and hang up.
• It is also advised to find a number from a reputable source, such as the agency's website and to call the agency to confirm or refute the claim.
• Report the incident to local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre