Tax season phone scams target Bulkley Valley

Smithers RCMP is reminding the public about a common phone scam where the caller claims to be from the Canada Revenue Agency.

Smithers RCMP is warning the public about phone scammers pretending to be from the Canada Revenue Agency.

Smithers RCMP is warning the public about phone scammers pretending to be from the Canada Revenue Agency.

Bulkley Valley residents are being warned to beware phone scammers this tax season.

Smithers RCMP issued a warning today reminding the public about a common telephone scam where the caller claims to be from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

The scammers tell their victims they have an outstanding debt to the CRA, and that the police will issue a warrant for their arrest if they do not pay.

They often ask for credit card and banking details to collect the payment immediately.

Smithers RCMP said several local people have reported being contacted by the scammers, who have been described as being aggressive and intimidating.

Police urged the public to protect themselves by not providing financial or personal information over the phone.

The best way for someone to verify their tax situation is to contact the CRA independently using a phone number that was not provided by the caller, said the RCMP.

 

Smithers Interior News