The Indian government has suggested granting broad access to private email systems and applications to its tax officials.
Section 247 of a tax law [PDF], which mandates that citizens grant tax authorities access to their digital and physical information, contained the idea that surfaced last month.
The section also gives tax authorities the power to “gain access by overriding the access code to any said computer system, or virtual digital space, where the access code thereof is not available.” That text appears in the same paragraph describing powers to break down doors or crack safes.
“Virtual digital space” is defined as follows:
- Email servers;
- Social media account;
- Online investment account, trading account, banking account, etc.;
- Any website used for storing details of ownership of any asset;
- Remote server or cloud servers;
- Digital application platforms;
- Any other space of similar nature.
How tax officials might obtain any of the aforementioned information is not explained in the law.
The proposed bill has been referred to as warrantless spying by the Congress, India’s largest opposition party.
“This is nothing but the government trying to take control through the backdoor,” said party spokesperson Supriya Shrinate.
The rules, according to the Indian government, are necessary to update tax laws for the digital era.
As of right now, the Bill is just that—it is still up for debate until it becomes law. India’s tax officials would begin cracking virtual digital places in 2026 if it passes in its present form.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News is a premier platform dedicated to delivering latest news, updates, and insights from the tech industry. With its strong foundation of intellectual property and thought leadership, the platform is well-positioned to stay ahead of the curve and lead conversations about how technology shapes our world. From its early days as CIO News to its rebranding as The Mainstream on November 28, 2024, it has been expanding its global reach, targeting key markets in the Middle East & Africa, ASEAN, the USA, and the UK. The Mainstream is a vision to put technology at the center of every conversation, inspiring professionals and organizations to embrace the future of tech.
