www.picanada.ca
February 2016 
Volume 7 
Issue 4   
THE INVESTIGATOR
In This Issue
Tax Season - Be Careful
Common Scams
Protect Yourself
About Us

 

Since 2000 BCSI has performed hundreds of successful investigations.

 

Our integrated team of investigators and support services ensure that the investigations are conducted in a timely fashion with leading edge techniques. 

 

BCSI is considered the platinum standard of the industry based on the quality and the wide spectrum of its services as well as the expertise of the investigators.

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"In this world nothing is said to be certain, except death and taxes." - Benjamin Franklin
It is certainly that time of year again. The time for Canadian citizens to file their taxes. While many Canadians may not associate tax season with fraud, the RCMP and CRA have cited an increase in the prevalence of tax related scams. The best way to avoid falling prey to such scams is to actively be aware of them.
Fraudulent Tax Preparation

These fake businesses may be an online operation or open for a short period of time during tax season. They will tend to charge high fees and guarantee high returns. They will use a percentage style fee system, giving the consumer a false sense of security as it appears the harder they work the more you will both benefit. These businesses may also offer to help you settle back taxes and promise they can decrease the amount that you owe the CRA. 

Phishing
 
It may come in the form of an email or a phone call, this is phishing. Commonly the scammer will claim to be a CRA employee, stating that the victim needs to send money to the government. They ask for personal and credit card information and state that if not immediately provided they will be subject to fines and even criminal charges.

Identity Theft
The process of filing taxes requires the consumer to provide all their personal information. As a result, your taxes will contain enough information to steal your identity. Thus, consumers need to be cautious of who they are sharing this information with and whether they are keeping this information in a secure location.

Fraudulent Charities

It is common for Canadians to claim the donations they make to charities on their tax return. Scammers exploit this by creating fake charities and promising a greater tax return with a donation to their charity. A fraudulent charity may also contact you via mail or phone, thanking you for your generous donation (that you didn't make). They will then ask you to provide follow-up information so that you can claim your donation on your tax return. The fake charity will ask you for your personal information and credit card information.
Protect Yourself
As a consumer, use caution this tax season. Only use reputable firms and accountants to help file your taxes. Remember that the CRA will always send mail to notify a citizen of an issue via mail, prior to phoning them. Take care to protect your personal information and be cautious of unknown charities. Never write a cheque to a person who claims to be working for a charity and be watchful for fraudulent charities posing as well known charities, but have a slight difference in name. 

BCSI investigators are experienced in dealing with suspected fraud and scams. Contact our office if you need help making sure your personal and sensitive information is secure. Similarly, if you think you have been a victim of tax related fraud, contact us and our agents will be happy to assist you.