CRA text scam: does the CRA send text messages?

Q: How do I check if the CRA really contacted me?

Sign in to CRA My Account yourself, or call 1-800-959-8281 for individuals.

Only one kind. The CRA sends a one-time sign-in code by text if you set that up for your CRA account. It does not use texts, WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to talk to you about your taxes, refunds or benefits.

Not sure about a message? Paste it into our free ScamCheck tool for a plain-English verdict. Nothing you paste leaves your phone or computer.

Check a message free

The CRA will not

Send refunds or payments by e-transfer or text message.
Demand payment right away by Interac e-transfer, gift cards, prepaid credit cards, or cryptocurrency.
Threaten to arrest or deport you, or send police.
Ask for personal or financial information in an email or voicemail.
Charge a fee to talk to an agent.

How to check a website

Real CRA web addresses start with canada.ca or end in cra-arc.gc.ca. Scammers use lookalikes with hyphens, such as “-gc-ca”. Source: CRA: Recognize a scam.

The safe way to check

Sign in to CRA My Account yourself by typing canada.ca into your browser, and look for a message there.
Or call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281 (individuals). Don't call a number from the text or voicemail until you've checked it with the CRA's number checker.

If you already replied, clicked or paid

If you gave your bank or card details, call your bank right away.
If you gave your SIN or CRA password, call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281 so they can protect your account.
Change any password you typed in.

How to report it

Forward the text to 7726 (it spells SPAM). It's free, and it helps Canadian phone companies block the scam for everyone. Get Cyber Safe explains how.
Report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online, or call 1-888-495-8501 (weekdays 10 am to 4:45 pm Eastern). You can report even if you didn't lose money.
If you lost money, also call your local police.

Quick answers

Does the CRA send text messages?

Only one-time sign-in codes, if you enrolled your phone for CRA sign-in. The CRA says it won't use texts or instant messaging to discuss your taxes, benefits or account.

Does the CRA send refunds by e-transfer link?

No. The CRA says it won't send refunds or payments by e-transfer or text message.

How do I check if the CRA really contacted me?

Last checked 2026-10-16 against official sources linked on this page. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.