Halton police warn of fraudulent phone calls from CRA and HRPS numbers

Published February 19, 2021 at 10:41 am

The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) would like to warn residents about a scam that is occurring in the region.

Police say the victim will receive a phone call from an unknown number where the caller claims to be from the Canada Revenue Agency and advises the victim that they owe money.

According to police, the victim may also receive a phone call from 905-825-4777, which is the telephone number assigned to the HRPS.

The caller will claim to be a police officer and advise the victim that there is a warrant for their arrest, before demanding a monetary payment from the victim in the form of Bitcoin in order to avoid arrest, according to police.

Police say it appears as though the phone calls are being routed fraudulently through the HRPS phone number, which is known as “spoofing.”

Residents are reminded that neither the CRA nor the HRPS will demand payment of any type over the phone, nor will they demand that payment be made in Bitcoin.

If you are ever in doubt, please contact the police for assistance at 905-825-4777.

HRPS is reminding the public to safeguard yourself and your loved ones by discussing these scams and what to do when a call like this is received.

If you suspect you have been contacted by a scam, hang up immediately.

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