Tax season phone fraud scams two local victims

Prince Edward County OPP received two reports on Tuesday, Jan. 21 from individuals who received calls from someone claiming to be with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

“One party purchased approximately $500 in Itunes gift cards and provided them with the bar codes. Another individual provided them with their social insurance number,” said Const. Aaron Miller, Community Safety and Media Relations Officer. “Scammers are sneaky and sly. They can target anyone, from youngsters to retirees. They can also target businesses. No one is immune to fraud.”

His reminder is knowledge and awareness about phone scams is power, noting the CRA will never ask for gift cards.

For those who would like more information on this and other popular fraud schemes, the OPP and CIBC will be partnering to host a seminar on “Protecting Yourself from Fraud” on Monday, Feb. 24 from 1:30-2:30 at the Wellington on the Lake Recreation Centre.

Participants will learn how to identify different types of fraud, and the latest scams and actions you can take to protect yourself, and what to do if you are a victim of fraud. The session is free of charge. Call the County Seniors Centre, with Community Care for Seniors, to register at 613-476-7493.

“This will be an incredible opportunity to help feel more informed on the latest scams and the actions you can take to keep your personal information and finances safe.”