Tax time is scam time: BBB cautions businesses and consumers about common tax fraud where scammers are disguised as tax professionals.
Here Are Some Common Tax Scams:
- Email phishing: Scammers cleverly design realistic looking emails that closely resemble trustworthy tax businesses, like the Canada Revenue Agency. The email asks you for your financial and personal information in order to “verify” your account or claim a tax refund. The emails are loaded with malicious links and attachments that when clicked on, immediately install malware onto your computer.
- False tax refunds or beneficiary payments – An unsolicited email or text message phishing for your personal and financial information that is needed to “verify” your identity or claim a tax refund or beneficiary payment.
- False audit notifications – Aggressive calls or emails demanding immediate payment to avoid a fine. If no payment is made, scammers threaten to have you arrested, or even deported if you’re new to the country.
Here’s How to Protect Yourself:
- Be wary of unsolicited messages. Remember that a legitimate tax professional or agency will not ask for your personal information via email or text message. Do not open suspicious email attachments or links.
- Do the math. If the details of a suspicious message don’t add up with what the official tax agency or professional says, chances are it’s a scam. Always contact the official business to verify information and claims.
- Ask yourself questions. Did I provide my email address on my income tax and benefit return to receive mail online? Am I expecting more money from the CRA? Is the requester asking for information I would not provide in my tax return? Is the requester asking for information I know the CRA already has on file for me?
For more consumer tips, visit bbb.org.
