The timing coincides with the arrival of the 2009 tax packages in the mail. An email being circulated shows up in the intended victim’s email mailbox as if it originated from the government of
If the recipient follows the link on the email they would be required to provide information to allow the refund to be processed. The information requested includes, but may not be limited to:
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First Name: |
Last Name: |
Address: |
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City: |
Province: |
Postal Code: |
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Home Phone Number: |
Mother's Maiden Name: |
Date of Birth: |
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Social Insurance Number: |
Credit/Debit Card Number: |
Expiration date [ MM/YYYY ] |
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Card Verification Code: |
Card Signature/ATM PIN: |
Bank Name: |
The intent of this scam is to obtain personal information that can be used to steal from or defraud the victim. It is a commonly used tactic known as “phishing”.
Do not respond and do not provide such information.
The Canada Revenue Agency is aware of the scams and has posted sample emails on their website. They have also taken steps to disable the link within some of the emails circulated.
Persons receiving such emails can forward them to Phonebusters website at www.phonebusters.com. They are well aware of it.
