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Security Alert: Fake CRA Email Scam Targeting Ontario Businesses

We're seeing a renewed wave of fake Canada Revenue Agency emails targeting Ontario businesses — most claiming a refund, an audit, or a required action. This short alert covers the tell-tale signs and what to do if a user interacts with one.

July 17, 2026 3 min read Greater Sudbury & Ontario

What the CRA scam emails look like

  • Subject lines about refunds, audits, GST/HST filings, or 'urgent action required'
  • CRA logos and Government of Canada branding pulled from public assets
  • Link to a fake CRA sign-in page that captures credentials or banking details
  • Sometimes an attached PDF or HTML file rather than a direct link

The real CRA doesn't do this

  • CRA does not send refunds by email or text
  • CRA does not request personal or banking information by email
  • CRA does not threaten arrest, deportation, or immediate legal action
  • Verify anything suspicious by signing into My Account or My Business Account directly — never through a link in an email

If someone clicked

  • Do not enter any further information
  • Report the email to your IT team and delete it
  • If banking information was entered, contact your bank immediately
  • If Microsoft 365 credentials were entered, reset the password and revoke sessions

Train your team to spot scams like this

Security awareness training keeps threats like this top-of-mind — with periodic phishing simulations to build recognition.

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