Hasty Briefsbeta

HMRC using AI to scour suspected tax cheats' social media

12 days ago
  • #AI
  • #HMRC
  • #Tax Evasion
  • HMRC uses AI to monitor social media posts for criminal investigations into suspected tax cheats.
  • AI is used to streamline processes, reduce admin time, and better target fraud and evasion.
  • Human oversight remains crucial to avoid risks like mistaken identity from fake or hacked accounts.
  • AI has been used by HMRC for years, but its role in monitoring social media was recently disclosed.
  • AI is only used in criminal investigations, not for everyday taxpayers.
  • HMRC plans to add 5,500 compliance staff, indicating AI is not replacing jobs.
  • HMRC aims to use AI to simplify tax returns and improve access to online guidance.
  • Concerns exist about the government's national AI institute's stability, with potential funding cuts.