New benefit cheque scam making its rounds this holiday in Ontario

For many, the holidays bring added financial strain with rising expenses and seasonal costs. While a new round of government cheques, including the Canada Carbon Rebate, is slated to be distributed in 2025 to help ease these concerns, scammers are already taking advantage of the situation.

Fraudsters are now mimicking the Canada Revenue Agency’s in their latest scam across Ontario, including Mississauga and Brampton, attempting to trick unsuspecting individuals into sharing their personal and banking details.

The scam begins with a text message: “The CACAIP 2024 for $416, is available for your review. Visit paymentscradeposit.com before 28-12-24.”

At first glance, recipients may believe that the message is a legitimate form of communication from the CRA, as the Climate Action Incentive Payment (renamed the Canada Carbon Rebate or CCR) is a real program designed to help eligible Canadian residents offset the cost of the federal pollution pricing system.

The link in the text directs users to a website that appears legitimate but is designed to steal personal information. The message creates a sense of urgency, urging recipients to act quickly and review their “deposit” before the deadline. This tactic is meant to lower the victim’s guard and encourage them to click the link without verifying its authenticity.

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre says this particular scam is known as “phishing.” In most cases scammers will impersonate reputable entities and offer jobs or money while requesting victims to click on links, download attachments or fill out forms.

Peel Regional Police have recommended that residents do not respond to these messages and report them immediately. They also suggest deleting the message and blocking the number to prevent further contact from scammers.

In addition, the fraud prevention centre urges Ontarians to stay vigilant and not share personal or financial information with unverified sources.