HMRC Employs AI to Monitor Social Media for Tax Fraud Investigations

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) confirmed it now uses artificial intelligence to review social media as part of criminal investigations targeting suspected tax evasion.

The authority said AI tools will not replace human decision-making and are overseen by legal safeguards.

Enhancing Efficiency

By automating data collection and analysis, HMRC aims to free staff from administrative tasks and focus on assisting taxpayers while better targeting fraud and evasion. The technology has been in use for several years and is applied only in serious criminal cases, not routine compliance checks.

Expert Concerns

Accountancy specialist Chris Etherington of RSM UK warned that reliance on AI carries risks, including potential errors from fake or hacked social media accounts. He stressed the need for human review to ensure accurate decisions.

Broader AI Initiatives

Alongside social media monitoring, HMRC plans to use AI to help taxpayers navigate its extensive online guidance and reduce mistakes in tax returns, which can lead to significant revenue losses. The tax authority is recruiting 5,500 new compliance staff to support these efforts.

HMRC's use of AI aims to streamline investigations into serious tax crimes while preserving human oversight to manage risks and ensure fair decision-making.

This topic was reported by BBC News.

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