While the government actively encourages citizens to comply with tax obligations, the tax collection agencies are struggling to maintain the confidentiality of taxpayer information.
Reports have surfaced that individuals engaged in digital fraud are now targeting citizens who have submitted their tax returns, using their private information to blackmail them. Numerous complaints have highlighted this growing issue.
According to ARY News, online fraudsters have compromised and accessed taxpayers’ sensitive data nationwide. These criminals exploit this information to blackmail individuals by threatening to expose or misuse their financial details. This violation starkly contrasts with the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) obligations under Section 216, designed to safeguard such information.
Taxpayers have expressed concerns that the FBR is failing to fulfil its duty to protect its confidential information. They report attempts by fraudsters to access bank account details listed in their income tax returns, coupled with threats to shut down these accounts if the demands are unmet.
Furthermore, cybercriminals are reportedly attempting to extract ATM passwords and pins by leveraging the tax details they have illicitly obtained. Taxpayers have also reported receiving threatening calls informing them that all their tax and bank account details are in the hands of these criminals, who claim the ability to shut down their accounts.
