NBR warns taxpayers about fraudsters posing as tax audit officials
The revenue authority says scammers are demanding money by falsely claiming taxpayers' files have been selected for audit and urges the public not to make payments through unauthorised channels.
Highlights
- NBR warns of fraudsters impersonating tax officials.
- Scammers falsely claim tax files have been selected for audit.
- Taxpayers advised not to make payments through personal accounts or mobile financial services.
- Suspicious communications should be reported to tax offices and police.
The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has warned taxpayers against fraudsters posing as tax officials and demanding money by falsely claiming that their tax files have been selected for audit.
In a press release issued today (5 July), the NBR said the fraudsters have been contacting taxpayers from various mobile phone numbers, offering to exempt them from audits or threatening legal action unless payments are made.
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The revenue authority urged taxpayers to remain vigilant, clarifying that NBR officials do not contact taxpayers through personal mobile phone numbers or any unauthorised channel regarding tax audits.
It said taxpayers are notified of audits only through official written notices issued in accordance with the law.
The NBR also reminded taxpayers that all taxes, duties and other government fees must be paid only to the state treasury through authorised payment channels.
"No NBR officer or employee is authorised to receive payments directly through personal bank accounts, mobile financial services such as bKash, Rocket or Nagad, or in cash," the press release said.
The revenue authority advised taxpayers who receive suspicious phone calls, text messages or emails to verify the information immediately with the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Taxes in their respective tax zones.
It also urged taxpayers to report anyone impersonating an NBR official and demanding money to the nearest police station, while preserving the caller's phone number or other relevant information as evidence.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparent and taxpayer-friendly services, the NBR urged taxpayers not to make any financial transactions with individuals claiming they can secure audit exemptions or provide other tax-related favours in exchange for money.
