According to the Canada Revenue Agency, scammers frequently impersonate CRA employees and may contact victims by phone, email, text message, or through fake websites designed to look official. The CRA confirms that it will never send refunds by e transfer or text message, request personal or financial information by email or voicemail, or pressure you to click links to receive benefits or avoid penalties. If you wish to learn more, please visit: Recognize a scam – Scams and fraud – CRA – Canada.ca

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre continues to receive high volumes of reports involving tax-related fraud, noting that fraudsters increasingly use phishing messages, spoofed caller ID numbers, and official looking CRA branding to trick victims into sharing sensitive information. The CAFC stresses that it does not contact individuals to request money or personal information, and encourages all Canadians to report suspicious activity. For more information, please visit:  Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

Common Tactics Used in CRA Scams

Residents should be cautious if they receive:

• Emails or text messages with links urging you to “claim your refund,” “update your tax account,” or “avoid account suspension.” Scammers often use threats or promises of refunds to pressure victims into clicking fraudulent links.

• Phone calls demanding immediate payment or threatening arrest, deportation, or legal action-tactics scammers commonly use to intimidate victims. The CRA states it will never threaten arrest or use aggressive language.

• Fake websites imitating CRA login pages, often using unusual domain endings or extra characters (e.g., “cra-login-canada.com” or “crareturnreview.cfd”). Official CRA sites always start with canada.ca or end in .gc.ca

How to Recognize a Scam

You may be dealing with a scam if someone:

• Sends you a link and asks you to click it.

• Requests personal details such as SIN, banking information, or passport numbers. Scammers frequently claim this information is needed to release a refund or confirm eligibility.

• Asks for payment by cryptocurrency, gift cards, or e transfer which are methods the CRA does not accept.

• Claims to be calling from the CRA but refuses to provide a callback number or identity verification.

Protect Yourself

• Do not click on links in emails or texts claiming to be from CRA or tax software providers.

• Verify communications by contacting the CRA directly using the official numbers listed on Canada.ca.

• Check the web address carefully before logging into any tax related portal.

• Monitor your CRA MyAccount regularly for suspicious activity.

• Report scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at antifraudcentre.ca.

If You’re Unsure

• Hang up, delete the message, and contact CRA yourself.

• Consult family, friends, or trusted community members before acting on unexpected tax-related communications-especially if messages feel urgent or threatening.

If you believe you have been targeted by a CRA related scam, whether or not you shared personal information, you are urged to report the matter. The Canadian Anti Fraud Centre advises all Canadians to report any scam or attempted scam, even if no money was lost. Reporting helps law enforcement identify patterns and prevent further victimization.

Victims should:

• Report the incident to the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre at antifraudcentre.ca or by phone.

• Contact the CRA directly if you believe your tax account or personal information may have been compromised. CRA provides guidance on what to do if you suspect identity theft, including monitoring and protecting your CRA accounts.

• Preserve any suspicious emails, texts, or call details to assist investigators.

The OPP reminds residents that they are not alone. Fraudsters are highly sophisticated, and anyone can fall victim. Prompt reporting is essential in helping police and federal agencies combat these crimes and keep our communities safe.

The post Tax Season Scams Hit Our Region appeared first on Muskoka411.

Bracebridge OPP officers investigate many reported frauds throughout the year and on January 5, 2026, received a report of a newer tactic being used by scammers. The victim described that they received a phone call from a person they believed to be a representative from their banking institution, not only did the caller seem knowledgeable, but the number on the victims call display matched their bank. The scammer was able to convince the victim that their account had been compromised and that a courier service was going to attend the victims residence and retrieve the associated bank card. A person did attend the victims address, collected the victims card and then went on to drain several thousand dollars from their account.

OPP say the victim lost about $5000.

Fraudsters put a great deal of effort into the tactics used to steal money from victims. In most situations it involves the use of technology and the transfer of data or digital funds, and this recent report of a person showing up at the victim’s residence is a cause for additional concern.

Scammers can target anyone, here are some tips to help protect yourself:

• Don’t be afraid to say no
• Slow things down and verify all information with a trusted source
• Don’t give out personal information including your address, birthdate, social insurance number or credit card/banking information
• Protect your computer and watch for urgent looking messages
• Protect your online accounts and choose strong passwords
• Recognize spoofing- fraudsters have the ability to manipulate the phone number appearing on your call display or text messages, even email addresses.
• Never click on links received via text message or email.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call Bracebridge OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.crimestopperssdm.com.

For more fraud facts and figures and a downloadable booklet (PDF), visit The Competition Bureau of Canada website at https://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/eic/site/cb-bc.nsf/eng/home or by visiting http://www.opp.ca, Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and Protect yourself from scams and fraud.

The post Muskoka Resident Loses About $5000 To New A New Scam appeared first on Muskoka411.

In recent incidents, callers have reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to be an OPP officer. To appear credible, the caller provides a name and badge number and the phone number displayed on caller ID is spoofed to resemble the OPP non-emergency phone line. The caller states that they are investigating identity fraud and then attempts to transfer the call to a fraud department.

The OPP has seen an increase in the spoofing of business, government and law enforcement telephone numbers, email addresses and websites. Individuals engaging in these fraudulent activities often use the names of trusted organizations to gain access to sensitive personal information. The OPP urges everyone to verify the identity of any caller before sharing personal information.

Fraud continues to evolve, affecting individuals and businesses across Canada. Many of these crimes are committed by individuals who use deception, misrepresentation and manipulative tactics to exploit trust. If you think you’ve been the victim of fraud, do not wait to contact your police service of jurisdiction. If that is the OPP, report fraud by calling 1-888-310-1122. For more information on fraud awareness or to report a fraud attempt, go directly to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

The post OPP Warns Public Of Fraudulent Calls Involving Impersonation Of OPP Officers appeared first on Muskoka411.

This month, Orillia OPP were contacted by individuals who were sent a text message from whom appeared to be Service Ontario about an unpaid speed camera ticket. The text provides a link for the victim to utilize, with a goal of stealing personal and financial information.

The OPP would like to remind motorists that if you are ticketed for speeding through an Automated Speed Enforcement program, you will not receive a text message from Service Ontario. The ticket will be mailed out to the registered address of the vehicle’s owner, making them aware of the infraction and the corresponding penalty. Further information specific to the Automated Speed Enforcement Program in the City of Orillia can be found at Automated Speed Enforcement Program – City of Orillia.

These messages will try to incite a feeling of urgency, and police are strongly recommending that people slow the process down and verify all information that they receive before proceeding.  In the attached image, some signs to look out for to indicate that the message may be a scam include: a quick deadline, the area code of the phone number, odd grammar and spelling errors, and the use of “DMV,” rather than Service Ontario to name a few examples.

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre is Canada’s national, joint force anti-fraud repository whose mandate includes gathering intelligence on all types of frauds and analyzing the data that helps guide police investigations. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre also provides education and awareness on fraud prevention, to become educated on the many different types of fraud that may affect you, please visit Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

The post Speed Camera Text Message Scams Are Hitting Orillia appeared first on Muskoka411.

The post City Of Orillia Warning Residents Of By-law Officer Impersonation Scam appeared first on Muskoka411.

Lately, many people are seeing more text messages from unknown numbers, saying things like “Unpaid highway toll detected on your vehicle. Pay now to avoid fines.” or “We’ve detected suspicious activity on your account – verify now”. Be on the lookout: it could be a common scam known as smishing.

What is smishing?

Smishing is a type of scam where fraudsters send text messages pretending to be trusted businesses, government agencies, or even people you know. They try to trick you into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information like passwords or credit card numbers. Their goal is to steal your personal data or money.

Warning signs

• Be cautious of text messages if:
• it comes unexpectedly from an unknown number
• it asks for personal info or requests you click a link
• it creates a sense of urgency
• it claims they are from a trusted business or bank to appear legitimate

Protect yourself

Take these steps to prevent becoming a victim:

• Verify the sender by contacting them through another medium, like the phone number on the official website
• Never click on suspicious links
• Delete smishing messages and block the number
• Ignore texts even if they ask to reply with “STOP” or “NO”
• Flag spam texts by forwarding them to 7726 (SPAM), helping your cellular provider investigate further
• Report suspicious texts. If you believe you’ve come across smishing, report it to Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

The post Ding! Scammers Are Hiding In Your Text Messages appeared first on Muskoka411.

Individuals may offer to pave driveways, fix roofs, or do other home repairs, often claiming it’s a “one-day-only deal.” They may seem professional, with flyers and websites, but they often use fake names, false ID, and unmarked vehicles. They ask for cash up front, then leave behind poor-quality work, or never return at all.

The OPP would like the public to know that these scams usually happen between April and October and often go unreported. If someone shows up at your door offering services you didn’t request, don’t feel pressured. Take your time, talk to a trusted friend or family member, and report anything suspicious to police.

These types of Scams happen on a regular basis and can be avoided by these simple tips/reminders.

• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

• Proper businesses don’t need to knock on doors-they’re usually already busy.

• Always check out the company first and read the whole contract.

• If you think it might be a scam, call your local police.

The OPP urges residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious paving offers or contractor activity. If you believe you have been targeted by a paving scam, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or

www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca

For more information on how to recognize and protect yourself from scams, visit www.ontario.ca/page/identify-scam-or-fraud 

The post Paving Scams Are On The Rise Across Ontario appeared first on Muskoka411.

On February 20^th,2025 the Orillia OPP were made aware of a new scam to the surrounding area involving fire protection. Police were provided an oddly formatted pamphlet with no business markings, stating it was a home safety checklist with advice for fire safety.  With assistance from the Orillia Fire Prevention Officer it was determined that fire alarms pictured in the pamphlet did not seem to be Canadian standard. Further investigation determined that there were no business markings, address or phone numbers associated to the pamphlet other than a hand written number on one of the pages.

The Orillia OPP want people to be aware that there are dishonest people out there who want to take your money and if you have been victim of a similar fraud and have lost money please contact the Orillia OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

The Orillia OPP is committed to public safety and crime prevention. If you have any information about crime in our community please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS). You can submit your information online at www.crimestopperssdm.com if you have any information on this crime or any other crime. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display and you will remain anonymous. Being anonymous, you will not testify in court and your information may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.00

The post Orillia OPP Warn Of New Scam In The Area appeared first on Muskoka411.

In the two reported case yesterday an elderly female was defrauded of $5000 cash by a suspect posing as bailiff who needed the money to release her grandson from jail. The second report was from an elderly female giving $6000 to a caller posing as her grandson and called taxi to pick her up to attend bank to withdraw cash.

A Photo of a suspect is attached to this release. Suspect appears to a female with dark hair wearing dark clothing, poses as a Bailiff or law enforcement agency member.

If you receive a suspicious call, remember:

• Be suspicious of calls that require immediate action. Hang up and contact the family member directly.
• The caller either doesn’t provide a normal jail location for the area if asked or mistakes the local police service. Call the non-emergency number of the police service to verify the story or confirm the name and badge number of the officer calling.
• When at the bank, tell the truth about why you’re taking out large sums of cash as bank tellers are very familiar with scams.
• The courts won’t ask for cash to bail out someone in custody and will require people to be present in court.
• Never send cash, cryptocurrencies or any other funds to unknown person, unverified addresses or bank accounts.
• Take time to verify the story by asking the caller a few personal questions or pressing your caller for details. Scammers are counting on you wanting to quickly help your loved one in an emergency.

The Huntsville OPP is committed to serving our province. If you have any information about crime in our community, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To report minor occurrences online please visit www.opp.ca/reporting. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit your information online at www.crimestoppers.com. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display, and you will remain anonymous. You will not testify in court and your information may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.00.

The post Two People Fall Victim To Scams In Huntsville And Lose Significant Money appeared first on Muskoka411.

On Thursday February 13, 2025, Peterborough County OPP received a call from a person stating they had just been scammed out of $6,000. The complainant advised that they had received a call from someone claiming to be a friend of theirs and were in need of money.

The ‘friend’ claimed to have been in an accident and as a result had been arrested and were now being held for Bail.

Instructions were provided by someone claiming to be the friends lawyer, to obtain the $6,000 and they would have a courier come pick it up. A code word was provided that the courier would also use to ensure they were handing the money off to the correct person. An individual showed up by taxi, provided the code word and took the money.

A short time later, the complainant called her friend at which time she realized she had been scammed.

The Peterborough County OPP want to remind everyone that these types of Scams happen on a regular basis and can be avoided by these simple tips/reminders.

·      If a friend or loved one is arrested and held for Bail, no one should ever contact you looking for cash to bail them out. That’s not the way our legal system works.

·      Ask what court or police station they are being held at and then call yourself to confirm.

·      Never provide your address or personal information to anyone that you don’t know.

·      Try calling your friend or loved one on a phone that you know would be in their possession to confirm they are ok.

·      If you have concerns that it might be a scam, call your local police agency.

If you have any information that can assist in this investigation, you can contact the Peterborough County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. If you want to remain anonymous, you can provide information through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.stopcrimehere.ca.

To serve our province by protecting its citizens, upholding the law and preserving public safety.

The post Victim Loses $6,000 To Emergency Scam appeared first on Muskoka411.