How to Confirm If the CRA Is Really Calling You
With phone scams on the rise, it’s more important than ever to verify who’s on the other end of the line—especially if they claim to be from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Fraudsters often impersonate CRA agents to trick Canadians into sharing sensitive information or making fraudulent payments. Here’s how to protect yourself.
What to Expect When the CRA Calls
If you receive a call from someone claiming to be with the CRA, always proceed with caution. A legitimate CRA representative will identify themselves by providing:
✔ Their full name
✔ Their office location
✔ A callback phone number
Warning: Never call back using the number they provide unless you’ve independently verified it through official CRA sources. Scammers can fake phone numbers to make their calls look legitimate!
What to Do If You Get a Suspicious Call
If you’re unsure whether the call is legitimate, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Do Not Share Personal Information
Until you’ve confirmed it’s truly the CRA, avoid giving out personal details like your SIN, banking information, or any sensitive data.
2️⃣ Gather the Caller’s Details
Ask for the caller’s:
🔹 Name
🔹 Office location
🔹 Callback phone number
Important: Never rely on caller ID—scammers can spoof numbers to appear as the CRA.
3️⃣ Inform Them You’ll Call Back
Let the caller know you need to verify their details before continuing the conversation. A real CRA agent will understand and won’t pressure you to stay on the line.
4️⃣ End the Call & Verify the Number
Once you’ve hung up, use the CRA’s official phone number verification tool to check if the number is legitimate. You can also compare it with the CRA’s publicly listed contact numbers.
Still Unsure If It’s the CRA?
The CRA does make calls for valid reasons, such as:
📌 Requesting additional or missing tax information
📌 Discussing outstanding balances
📌 Notifying you of a tax review or audit
If you’re ever in doubt, visit the official CRA website or call them directly using a verified number. Staying informed and cautious can help you avoid falling victim to scams!