The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) issued a clarification on Wednesday, emphasizing that taxpayer data, including bank account numbers, exists only in an offline mode and is not linked with any banks or financial institutions.
The revenue body categorically stated that there is no finger print authentication mechanism available within the FBR system.
The clarification comes amid concerns and speculations regarding the accessibility of taxpayer information and the potential linkage of FBR with banking transactions. FBR unequivocally asserted that there is no connection or access to banking transactions at any level with banks or financial institutions.
“The tax profile data of FBR has only offline bank account numbers which are not linked with banks or financial institutions,” the FBR statement affirmed.
Furthermore, the FBR clarified that there is no mechanism for finger print authentication within their systems. This dispels any notions of biometric authentication for taxpayer profiles.
The messages circulating on various platforms suggesting that FBR has access to banking transactions and that there is a risk of unauthorized access were vehemently dismissed by the revenue body. FBR labeled such messages as fake and baseless, aiming to allay concerns among taxpayers and the general public.
The FBR’s statement serves to reaffirm the security and confidentiality measures in place for taxpayer information. The assertion that the data is offline and not linked to external financial entities underscores the commitment of FBR to safeguarding sensitive financial information.
This clarification aligns with the broader trend in the financial and tax sectors globally, emphasizing the paramount importance of data security and privacy. As digital systems become more integral to financial processes, ensuring the protection of personal and financial data is a priority for regulatory bodies.
The FBR’s proactive response to address circulating concerns showcases its commitment to transparency and accountability. By promptly dismissing rumors and clarifying the status of taxpayer data, the revenue body aims to build trust among taxpayers and the public at large.
It is crucial for individuals and businesses to stay informed about the security measures in place and to rely on official communications from regulatory bodies. False information and baseless rumors can lead to unnecessary panic and confusion among the public.
The FBR’s statement provides a clear and unequivocal stance on the status of taxpayer data, emphasizing its offline nature and the absence of any linkage with banks or financial institutions. This clarification serves to reinforce the confidence of taxpayers in the security measures implemented by FBR and underscores the importance of relying on official and verified information.
