OPP  OPP news release…
(BLIND RIVER, ON) – The East Algoma Ontario Provincial Police has received complaints regarding a possible consumer scam.
Police learned that fraudsters’ are impersonating the real Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) by telephone, phishing for identification and personal information and asking that outstanding taxes be paid by a money service business or by pre-paid debit / credit card.
Warning sign(s) – How to protect yourself
·                Do not take immediate action. Verify that what you are being told is the truth.
·                Ask yourself why the CRA would be asking for personal information over the phone or e-mail that they likely already have on file for you as a taxpayer.
·                Contact the CRA to confirm that you in fact owe back taxes, or are entitled to a refund, before providing any personal or banking information.
Staff Sergeant Richard Riopelle reminds the public to be wary of suspicious telephone calls.  Do not give personal information over the phone or send money to anyone without confirming the caller’s identity and the validity of the information being provided.
For further information regarding this scam visit the Canada Revenue web site for more information. http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/fraudprevention/
If you suspect someone may have been a victim of a scam, encourage them to report the incident to their local police service or the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.