8 people facing charges after cyber-enabled fraud targets federal COVID benefit: RCMP

The RCMP logo is seen outside the force's 'E' division headquarters in Surrey, B.C., on March 16, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

Eight people from Ottawa, Gatineau and Montreal are facing charges in connection with an alleged cyber-enabled fraud targeting federal benefits for Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) launched an investigation in August 2020 into a cyber attack on the Canada Revenue Agency’s (CRA) online portal. The Mounties say the fraud targeted the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) program.

“The investigation revealed a sophisticated fraud scheme involving networks of individuals who worked together to steal personal identities, unlawfully access CRA accounts, and fraudulently claim CERB benefits,” the RCMP said in a media release on Wednesday.

“With assistance from the CRA, investigators determined that suspects gained unauthorized access to taxpayer accounts, altered banking information, and redirected CERB payments into accounts under their control.”

The RCMP said the fraudulent claims totalled approximately $364,000.

Four residents from Montreal, three Gatineau residents and an Ottawa man are facing charges. Seven of the suspects are charged with fraud over $5,000.

“Cyber–enabled fraud schemes targeting government benefit programs present complex and evolving challenges for law enforcement,” said Insp. Guy Michel Nkili, officer in charge of the RCMP Central Region International Anti-corruption Team.

“These crimes often transcend borders and require specialized investigative approaches to identify those responsible and disrupt their operations.”

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