Beware of fraudsters claiming to be from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). In a recent press release, CRA asks “did you get a suspicious email, telephone call, letter or text message claiming to be from the Canada Revenue Agency?” If you’re being asked for personal information such as your credit card number, bank account number or passport number, this is a scam.

Keep the following facts in mind. The Canada Revenue Agency will never: ask for your personal or financial information through an unsolicited email with a link; ask for any kind of personal information through email or text message; ask for payment by prepaid credit cards or gift cards; leave your personal information on an answering machine; threaten you.

Even if these messages may seem convincing, they are scams and you should never respond to them or click on any of their links.

If you think you may have been the victim of a tax scam or have been tricked into giving out your personal or financial information, CRA suggests that you contact your local police as soon as possible because your financial security and personal identity are at risk. Learn more at www.canada.ca and search for “scams”.

I have personally known several people who have been contacted by these scammers and it’s important to convey that the scammers appear and sound very, very convincing. It’s their business to be convincing. Don’t fall for it and if you do fall for it call the police.

Tax returns begin March 1

Community Care volunteers complete income tax returns for seniors who live in Prince Edward County. We will begin accepting 2017 returns on March 1.

If you’re a senior 60-plus whose single income is $30,000 or lower or whose household income is $40,000 or lower, you may be eligible for help through this program. Volunteers have been trained by the CRA.

There is no charge, donations are accepted. For information call 613-476-7493.

What’s ahead?

Just in time for Valentine’s Day! Community Care’s Thrift Shop at 153 Main Street receives the most amazing donations of jewelry and then holds a silent auction. Bidding is open now and closes at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10. All of the funds raised support programs for seniors in Prince Edward County.

Come on out and enjoy lunch with old and new friends on Wednesday, Feb. 7 at noon. The menu features homemade soup, roast loin of pork with chocolate cake for dessert at $10/person and held in the Beck & Call Restaurant.

As this is a special event only those seniors who have reserved can be served. Reserve by the Tuesday prior at 12 noon by calling 613-476-7493. Take-out and delivery (in Picton) is available.

-Debbie MacDonald Moynes