The RCMP would like to caution the public about fraudulent e-transfer emails claiming to be from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Deer Lake RCMP have received several complaints from residents who were sent emails that appeared to be from CRA advising they were entitled to a tax refund. Once the individuals attempted to deposit the funds, they were directed to provide their Social Insurance Number, Driver's Licence and personal banking information. This is an email scam. No funds were lost, however personal information was obtained by the fraudsters.
The RCMP is reminding the public to protect themselves from these scams. CRA will never ask for personal information through an email or text message. If an email seems like a scam do not divulge any personal information. Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) toll free at 1-888-495-8501 or online at www.antifraudcentre.ca.
If a fraudulent email is received and personal information has been provided, contact Equifax at 1-800-465-7166 (choose option 3) or TransUnion at 1-800-663-9980 to place fraud alerts on your account(s). If banking information has been shared, also contact your financial institution.
There is no need to call your local RCMP detachment if you have not been defrauded or provided personal information as part of a phone or email scam. Please only call your local police if you have been victimized by a scam.