Grenville County OPP are warning the public about a new kind of fraud scam that has cheated a local man out of nearly $5,000. Consumers get a call or text message declaring they owe back taxes as the result of an audit. The caller says the payment must be made immediately to avoid a fine. The caller then directs the consumer to buy and activate iTunes gift cards, and provide the codes back to the fraudsters.
Police say if you are asked to pay for any product, service or fee with an iTunes gift card, it is a scam. Any time you are contacted by someone claiming to be from the Canada Revenue Agency, you should contact them yourself to confirm the details of your account. Never provide personal or banking information. For more details on how to protect yourself, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.