As a newcomer to Canada, it's essential to be aware of the risks of impersonation fraud. Scammers often pose as government representatives to steal your personal and financial information.

In 2024 alone, Canadians lost a staggering $638 million to this type of fraud! Agencies like the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), Service Canada, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) are often impersonated.

To protect yourself, always validate any unexpected government communication through official channels. Here are several signs to help you identify potential scams:

• Urgency and Pressure: Scammers often pressure you to act quickly, creating a sense of panic.
• Unusual Payment Requests: Remember, official agencies will never ask for payments through gift cards, cryptocurrencies, or any other informal means!
• Verify Official Communication: Always reach out directly to the agency for confirmation if you're unsure.

Stay informed, stay safe, and don’t let scammers win!