The CRA Phone Scam
The exact script — what criminals say
CRA phone scam calls often use a recorded voice that says something like:
"This is an urgent call from the Canada Revenue Agency. A lawsuit has been filed against you for tax fraud. You owe $3,800 in back taxes. If you do not call us immediately at [fake number], a warrant will be issued for your arrest. Press 1 now to speak to an officer."
If a real person then picks up, they will:
- Demand you pay immediately by gift card (iTunes, Google Play, Amazon) or cryptocurrency
- Threaten police will arrive at your home within hours if you hang up
- Ask you to stay on the phone while you purchase the gift cards
- Tell you not to tell anyone what you are doing
Why seniors are specifically targeted
The CRA scam is designed to trigger fear of authority and fear of criminal consequences. Scammers have researched which fears are most powerful among older adults — the threat of arrest, the embarrassment of tax problems, and the fear of losing one's home. These fears override rational thinking. That is entirely intentional.
How to tell a real CRA call from a fake one
- Real CRA: Sends a letter first. Gives you time to respond. Will not threaten arrest. Will direct you to canada.ca or 1-800-959-8281. Will accept payment through your bank or online.
- Fake CRA: Calls out of nowhere. Demands immediate payment. Threatens arrest. Asks for gift cards. Asks you to stay on the line. Tells you to keep it secret.
If you receive a call that worries you, hang up and call CRA directly at 1-800-959-8281. Or log into your My CRA Account at canada.ca. A genuine CRA debt will be clearly shown there. The real CRA is patient and will give you time.
If you have experienced this scam, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or at antifraudcentre.ca. Reporting helps protect other Canadians.
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