(Lethbridge News Now)

By Jerran Fisher

LPS warns of tax-related fraud

Feb 14, 2022 | 11:07 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) is warning the public regarding tax-related fraud.

Police have received reports of financial scams throughout the year and expect even more now that the tax return deadline is approaching.

Sgt. Kevin Talbot of the Economic Crimes Unit says the police is trying to get ahead of the problem by informing the public of common scams, and what to do for those targeted.

“The scams generally involve the scammer saying they are from the Canada Revenue Agency; they contact victims demanding payment for taxes owed and threaten that failure to comply will result in arrest, seizure of bank funds, or loss of the victims’ Social Insurance Number.”

Talbot said, “that’s the tactic they use to get you to act quickly and ignore all reasonableness and diligence.”

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

The release states most people who fall victim are “good, honest people” who will do whatever they can to stay out of trouble.

One way to tell if you are in contact with a scammer is if they are asking for payment through unusual means.

“The CRA will not ask for payment by Interact, e-transfer, bitcoin, prepaid credit cards, or gift cards from retailers such as iTunes, Amazon, or others.”

Talbot says the best way to avoid being scammed is to ignore the demands and report suspected scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

For more information regarding these types of scams go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.