Despite arrests and recent crackdowns on illegal phone centres, the CRA scam persists.

RCMP are once again warning the public of a phone scam involving incoming calls displaying local numbers.

The call starts with an automated recording identifying the source of the call as the Canada Revenue Agency or Service Canada. The recording informs the caller that there is a warrant out for their arrest and to press one to speak to an agent.

RCMP say they have experienced a recent increase in calls from people wondering if there is a warrant out for their arrest. So many in fact, police are concerned they’re tying up emergency response lines. Arrest warrants are normally presented by hand.

Anyone who receives a scam phone call is asked to contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.