Scams targeting Canadians and Canadian charities and nonprofits have become increasingly sophisticated. Such scams can result in identity theft, financial losses, and added stress.

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Here are some practical tips to help you protect yourself and your loved ones from CRA scams:

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1. Recognize Common Scam Tactics

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Empower yourself by recognizing the fear tactics scammers often use to manipulate their victims. They may claim that you or your charity owe taxes, threaten legal action, or promise a refund to trick you into providing personal information. Exercise caution with unexpected calls, emails, or texts that appear to be from the CRA, mainly if they induce a feeling of urgency.

Key Signs of a Scam:

• Unsolicited contact from the CRA.
• Requests for personal or financial information.
• Demands for immediate payment via unusual methods (like gift cards or wire transfers).
• Threatening language or intimidation.

2. Verify Contact Information

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‍If you get a questionable message, feel free to confirm its legitimacy. The CRA will never ask for sensitive information via email or text. Instead, visit the CRA website or call their official number to confirm the legitimate communication.

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‍Useful Contact:

• CRA Official Website: www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency

3. Be Cautious with Links and Attachments

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‍Fraudsters frequently employ phishing techniques to entice you to click on harmful links or download unsafe attachments. Always hover over links to check the URL before clicking, and avoid downloading attachments from unfamiliar sources.

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4. Report Suspicious Activity

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‍If you suspect you've encountered a scam, it's crucial to report it. This helps authorities track and combat fraudulent activities. You can report scams to the following organizations:

• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC): www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca
• CRA: Report suspicious emails to the CRA at phishing@cra-arc.gc.ca or call their general inquiries line.

5. Educate Yourself and Others

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‍Keep updated on the newest scams and share this information with your friends and family. Sharing information can help others recognize and avoid scams. The CRA website often updates its list of known scams, which can be a helpful resource.

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6. Use Strong Security Measures

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‍Enhance your sense of safety by protecting your personal information with strong, unique passwords for your accounts and enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible. Consistently check your bank and credit accounts for suspicious activity to safeguard your financial security.

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7. Stay Calm and Don't Rush

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‍Remember, scammers thrive on panic. If you receive a suspicious call or message, take a deep breath. Don't rush to provide information or make decisions. Hang up, verify, and take the time to assess the situation. Your calm and collected response can be your best defence.

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Conclusion

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‍By remaining knowledgeable and alert, you can better shield yourself from CRA scams and enhance community safety. Keep in mind: if something seems suspicious, it likely is. For additional information and resources on how to avoid scams, check out the CRA's official website or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

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‍Reporting Websites:

• CRA: www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency
• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca

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Taking these proactive measures can protect your personal information and help fight fraud. Stay safe.