Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

Maple Ridge Tax Partners Scam - How to Protect Yourself

Recent reports indicate that residents in the Maple Ridge area are being targeted by scammers, often involving fraudulent communications pretending to be from government agencies like the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) or local municipal officials. These scams frequently involve demands for immediate payment of back taxes, often requiring wire transfers or gift cards.

Tax-Related Scams

  • CRA Impersonation: Callers or emailers threaten taxpayers with arrest or legal action if a "fictitious debt" is not paid immediately.
  • Email Scams: Fraudulent emails claim to be from the City of Maple Ridge or tax officials, designed to steal personal information.
  • Fake Tax Breaks: Scam advertisements on platforms like Facebook promote fake tax breaks to lure in victims.
  • Extortion Scams: Criminals have used text messages pretending to be from local health or child services, threatening families.

Warning Signs

  • Pressure Tactics: Scammers pressure victims to make fast decisions and demand payment via untraceable methods like gift cards or wire transfers.
  • Official Contact: The CRA will never request personal information over the phone, through email, or on social media.
  • Verify Information: Always verify the identity of the caller by contacting the agency directly through official channels.
  • Report Fraud: If you are targeted, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) or report it to local law enforcement.
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