The OPP is asking residents not to call the police unless you’re a victim of fraud.
The OPP in Muskoka reports it has been inundated with calls from locals concerned about a Canada Revenue Agency scam. Officials say it’s not necessary to call the police unless you’ve given out banking information or sent money to a potential scammer. The scammers will often contact you by phone, email or texts claiming you have an outstanding balance to pay on your previous tax return. The OPP says fraudsters are identifiable as they will likely ask for obscure forms of payment like bitcoin, gift cards or credit card numbers. The CRA will never ask for these types of payments according to police.
The MyMuskokaSoundNow newsroom has also had calls about a credit card scam making the rounds in the district as well. According to reports, the caller will claim you can save on credit card interest rates or that your card has been compromised. Police say you should avoid giving out credit card information over the phone.
If you have questions about these and other scams, you can call the OPP Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.