Tax News

Reminder to Canadians to protect themselves from fraud

Ottawa, Ontario, March 2, 2011... March is Fraud Prevention Month across Canada and around the world. During tax-filing season, the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, is reminding Canadians to protect their personal information and protect themselves from becoming victims of fraud.

“Informing yourself about the prevention of identity theft is the most important part of making sure you do not become a victim; being informed is the best way to recognize and report cases of fraud,” said Minister Ashfield. “If you do become a victim, our government has given police and the courts new ways to fight against identity theft and to support victims of this growing crime. We will continue to strengthen the rules against these abuses and support victims' rights.”

There are many avenues for someone to get a hold of an individual's personal information - by email, letter, telephone, or door to door. With so many possible threats, it is important to protect your personal information at all times but particularly during tax filing season when you might be more inclined to give out your information.

The CRA Web site has information and advice on how to keep tax information safe. Visit www.cra.gc.ca to find a number of resources that can help you avoid becoming a victim of fraud:

• tax alerts about fraudulent schemes;
• examples of email scams;
• tips on how to handle personal documents; and
• what to do if you have become a victim of fraud.