Police say they are seeing an increase in reports of the Canada Revenue /utilities scam. The scam involves victims receiving phone calls from someone identifying themselves as a Canada Revenue Agency employee. The caller informs the victim that they owe the government money for back taxes and tells them that payment must be made immediately or they will be arrested. Victims are directed to go to the nearest store to buy “Visa Pay Power Cards” in various amounts. The suspects then access the cards and withdraw the funds purchased by the victim.
An alternate variation of the scam suggests an immediate payment is required for hydro or water or the utility will be disconnected immediately. Anyone with information regarding this type of fraud is asked to call Ottawa Police Fraud Section or Crime Stoppers.