Winnipeg police warn of rising tax scams

WINNIPEG — An increase in the number of reports of tax related scams has prompted the Winnipeg Police Service to issue a public advisory.

According to police, the scam begins with a phone call from someone claiming to be working with Taxation Canada. The suspect then claims the victim owes a large sum of money in taxes and informs them that they must make a payment in gift cards to clear the outstanding amount.

People are urged not to continue the call or send payments.

The Winnipeg Police Commercial Crime Unit is investigating and encourages people to discuss the scam with anyone they believe may be susceptible to this type of scam and warn them not to engage.

For more information on how to protect yourself from fraud and report it when you think it could be happening you can visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s website here.