So far in 2016, Saskatchewan RCMP have fielded over 850 complaints about the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) scam.
Fraudsters falsely claiming to collect payment for taxes have scammed at least 17 people out of $70,000.
Aggressive scammers threaten residents with arrest, legal action and seizure of assets if payment isn’t made. They will sometimes use vulgar language, particularly if the victim does not comply with demands.
READ MORE: Sask. police warn of scammers requesting payment in iTunes gift cards
On Monday, RCMP said callers are also falsely identifying themselves as police officers.
Fraudsters are able to spoof local telephone numbers so calls can appear to come from an RCMP detachment; however, most calls come from non-local numbers.
Officials are ensuring the public that the CRA never contacts people by telephone, text or email to ask for personal information or demand payment in the form of prepaid credit or even iTunes gift cards.
READ MORE: CRA income tax phishing scam still going strong, police warn
Those in doubt about taxes owed can check their account at the CRA website or call 1-800-959-8281.
If someone receives a suspicious call, they should record any specific details and report it to their local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC).
Anyone who unwittingly divulges personal information or financial information should contact their bank and local police force. People can also place a fraud alert on credit reports with Equifax Canada and TransUnion Canada.
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