w.e.f 01/APR/2026 - ITD will have legal right to break into and access your social media content, emails, bank/trading accounts, investments....

[RAMESH BABU N]

... if they suspect that the person has evaded income tax or they have a reason to believe that there is a case of undisclosed income, money, gold, jewelry or other such valuable items or properties which are hidden on which IT was not paid as per the IT Act 1961.

with effect from APRIL 01, 2026.

Some interesting times ahead from 2026 onwards.

 

[rakesh3929]

May I know the source sir? Though the motive is good the way they have outlined is not appropriate. It is a clear case of privacy breach. Now what if an employee at ITD, check someone on the pretext of doubt? Also, to break into and get access either they require the password or decryption access from the service provider like Whatsapp, Instagram which is again difficult.

 

[Ak Singh]

It is not confirmed yet?
It is only source as of now.
No official announcement from government.

 

[ccdc]

it is not defacto breach of privacy...if ITD is suspecting you to a tax evasion specialist....then they have to first give you notice...then they can access SM....also they need approval for doing this...it's tom dick and harry access....