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Horwath International is an international organization of separate and independent accounting and consulting firms licensed to use "Horwath" in connection with the provision of professional services. Horwath International is a non-practicing entity that does not provide professional services. Neither Horwath International nor any member is liable or responsible for the professional services performed by any other member.

Tax Refund Scams

Electronic Version

Meyers Norris Penny has become aware of a scam in which taxpayers are sent an e-mail that appears to be from the Canada Revenue Agency (“CRA”). This e-mail looks legitimate, but it is not. The CRA will not request information from you via e-mail as the CRA favours traditional letter mail to correspond with their clients.

In the version we have seen, the e-mail advises the taxpayer that they are due a refund of $386. The recipient is asked to click on a link to access a form that must be completed in order to receive the refund.

If you receive this email, DO NOT CLICK ON THE LINK, and DO NOT FILL IN THE FORM. All unsolicited e-mails claiming to be sent from the CRA, should be deleted immediately.

The current version of the scam e-mail looks like this:

If you responded to the Tax Refund Scam e-mail, please call the RCMP's Phonebusters toll-free line directly at 1.888.495.8501 to obtain further instruction on how to proceed.

Direct Mail Version

Meyers Norris Penny has become aware of another scam in which taxpayers are sent a letter that appears to be from the Canada Revenue Agency (“CRA”).

The fraud letter claims that there is “insufficient information” to process the individual’s tax return and that in order to receive a “claim,” the target must update their records with the CRA. The letter is accompanied by a form requesting the individual’s personal information including bank account numbers and passport details. The perpetrators ask for the form to be returned in the mail, by fax or e-mail. Again, this letter is not from the CRA and Canadians should not provide their personal information to the sender.

A version of the fraudulent letter and form is available as a PDF on the CRA website. The CRA has notified the proper law enforcement authorities of this scam. If you responded to this Tax Refund Scam letter, please call the RCMP's Phonebusters toll-free line directly at 1.888.495.8501 or e-mail info@phonebusters.com. To find out more about this and other similar scams, visit www.phonebusters.com.

All taxpayers should be vigilant when divulging any confidential information to third parties. The CRA has well established practices to protect the confidentiality of taxpayers’ information. When unsure, protect yourself by asking questions. Verify the authenticity of those requesting your personal details and phone the parent organization if necessary.

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