New benefit cheque scam making its rounds this holiday in Ontario [Video]

For many, the holidays bring added financial strain with rising expenses and seasonal costs. While a new round of government cheques, including the Canada Carbon Rebate, is slated to be distributed in 2025 to help ease these concerns, scammers are already taking advantage of the situation.

Fraudsters are now mimicking the Canada Revenue Agency’s in their latest scam across Ontario, including Mississauga and Brampton, attempting to trick unsuspecting individuals into sharing their personal and banking details.

The scam begins with a text message: “The CACAIP 2024 for $416, is available for your review. Visit paymentscradeposit.com before 28-12-24.”

At first glance, recipients may believe that the message is a legitimate form of communication from the CRA, as the Climate Action Incentive Payment (renamed the Canada Carbon Rebate or CCR) is a real program designed to help eligible Canadian residents offset the cost of the federal pollution pricing system.

The link in the text …