FBR moves against online display of wealth

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has decided to take action against individuals flaunting wealth on social media.

According to sources, data of hundreds of thousands of people displaying their wealth online has been collected. In the first phase, FBR will audit 100,000 affluent individuals.

Sources further revealed that non-filers who spend extravagantly on weddings will also face scrutiny.

Those wearing $20,000 suits at weddings will be targeted, while individuals showcasing bungalows, luxury cars, and jewelry will be required to justify their sources of income.

It was also stated that the FBR will compare last year’s tax returns with those filed this year.

Earlier, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) can now access people’s internet activity and phone call records when investigating tax fraud. Internet service providers, telecom companies, and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) must share customer details whenever the FBR asks.

Tax commissioners can request subscriber names, call logs, internet usage data, and even import or export records linked to an investigation. Officials say this will help trace hidden money trails, especially in digital transactions.

Under the new law, the FBR can also hire private auditors and technical experts to assist with audits and investigations. These experts must follow strict confidentiality rules and cannot share any taxpayer information