VPD warns public about phone scam using police non-emergency number

The Vancouver Police are warning the public of scammers who have been making phone calls using the department’s non-emergency number to pose as representatives of Canada Revenue Agency.

“Con-artists are making calls to Vancouver area residents, and have manipulated the phones to display the Vancouver Police Department’s non-emergency number, 604-717-3321,” said the VPD in a release.

“The callers then hold themselves out to be representatives from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and demand payment for unpaid taxes.”

The VPD is reminding the public that their non-emergency line is used to report non-emergency police situations and would not be used to solicit for any organization or individual.

The VPD is also asking the public to remain vigilant and use the following information to be aware of scammers.

The CRA:

Never requests prepaid credit cards
Never asks for information about an individual’s passport, health card, or driver’s licence
Never shares an individual’s taxpayer information with another person, unless they have provided the appropriate authorization
Never leave personal information on an answering machine or asks an individual to leave a message containing their personal information on an answering machine

When in doubt, ask yourself the following:

Is there a reason that the CRA may be calling? Do I have a tax balance outstanding?
Is the requester asking for information I would not include with my tax return?
Is the requester asking for information I know the CRA already has on file for me?
How did the requester get my email address or telephone number?
Am I confident I know who is asking for the information?

For information on scams or to report deceptive telemarketing contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or toll-free at 1-888-495-8501. If you believe you may be the victim of fraud or have given personal or financial information unwittingly, contact your local police service.

If you believe you may be the victim of fraud or have given personal or financial information unwittingly, contact your local police service.

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