New text scam posing as CRA looks very real in Mississauga and Brampton

Residents in Mississauga, Brampton and area are warned of a new scammer posing as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and sending fake text messages to cellphones in the region.

The text message says that the recipient is eligible for a cash return in the form of a GST/HST entitlement after an annual income tax review.

“Notice: your annual income tax has been reviewed by (CRA). In addition, a return of $381.70 was received. Please visit http://162.213.253.140 to finalize your (GST/HST) entitlement. *Data rates may apply*”

The Government of Canada says on their website that the CRA will never send a text message to receive a tax refund, to make a payment, to receive a employment insurance payment or to verify if your Social Insurance Number has been stolen.

Text messages requesting this kind of information are considering phishing, a technique used by scammers to obtain personal information about their victim.

This information allows them to steal money or impersonate the identity of the victim.

“Listen to your voice of reason before you act,” the Government of Canada said.

If a text message seems fraudulent, delete it and contact the CRA.