Winnipeg police warn public of tax scam

Winnipeg police are warning the public after receiving several reports of tax scams.

Officials said the scam consists of fraudsters sending emails or making calls and pretending they are the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). They try to obtain personal information and tell victims they have outstanding taxes.

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Police said the fraudsters can be very aggressive, and sometimes say that police are on their way to the victim’s door if they do not immediately pay.

The scam is targeting new Canadians who are not familiar with the tax or justice system, police said.

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Police are offering the following tips to avoid falling victim:

• The CRA has your identity information and will not use the phone to solicit it
• If you do receive a phone call, contact the CRA to confirm the details. Never agree to requests for payment with researching the caller