The London Police Service would like to take this opportunity to warn the public of Canada Revenue Agency and Microsoft phone scams occurring in the London Area. Recently our headquarters reception staff have received numerous inquiries from the public, which appear to be similar in nature.
Individuals receive a telephone call from someone claiming to be an employee of the Canada Revenue Agency. They are provided with information in relation to a possible investigation and criminal charges. The caller tells the individual that police will be notified if personal and financial information is not provided immediately to the caller. In some cases the caller’s tone becomes aggressive in nature in order to convince the individual to comply with their demands.
Calls have also been received from someone claiming to be from the Microsoft Corporation. The caller informs the individual that there is something wrong with their computer and that it needs to be fixed by allowing the caller to gain access to their computer. This allows the caller to be able to access any personal and financial information on the computer and in some cases a virus or malware is added to a computer.
There are currently a number of different scams and frauds but the individuals involved all have the same end goal – to defraud you of your money. We urge the public to never provide personal or financial information to anyone unless you know to whom you are providing it. Your bank will never ask for personal information over the telephone or internet. Always be cautious of anyone asking for personal or financial information.
When in doubt, ask yourself the following:
• Is there a reason that the CRA may be calling? Do I have a tax balance outstanding?
• Is the requester asking for information I would not include with my tax return?
• Is the requester asking for information I know the CRA already has on file for me?
• How did the requester get my email address or telephone number?
• Am I confident I know who is asking for the information?
If you have been a victim of a fraud, you are urged to call the police and report the incident. Your information could protect others from becoming a victim.
To report a Fraud please call our London Police Service Fraud Intake Line at 519-661-5515 Ext #5257.
