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A viral social media message sparked fear about digital privacy in India. Post claimed that from April 1, 2026, the Income Tax Department will gain the power to access social media accounts and personal emails. Many people believed that tax officials would start checking the digital accounts of all taxpayers. The Press Information Bureau, or PIB, has now cleared the confusion with a clear fact check.
The PIB said these claims are not valid and explained that the Income Tax Department will not regularly check emails or social media accounts. No rule allows officers to watch the personal digital activity of ordinary people.
The confusion started after Parliament passed the new Income Tax Act, 2025. This new regulation will replace the previous Income Tax Act of 1961 beginning on April 1, 2026. The primary goal of the new law is to simplify and clarify tax guidelines. Additionally, it modernizes the system for today's digital era. This new law neither changes taxes nor reduces privacy.
PIB said that access to digital data is allowed only during search and survey operations. These actions occur only when officials find strong evidence of serious tax evasion. Regular tax filing, normal scrutiny, or routine checks do not allow officers to read emails or view social media accounts.
The government also assured that honest citizens remain safe. The Income Tax Department has no power to enter private digital spaces for everyday work. Officers cannot collect personal messages, photos, or posts during regular tax checks. Such steps apply only in rare cases involving large-scale tax fraud or black money.
Search and seizure powers are not new. Even the old Income Tax Act allowed officers to seize papers, records, and devices during searches. The new law only adds digital records to the same process. Most financial records now exist online. The law reflects this change.
Some experts have spoken about privacy concerns. They said strong safeguards remain important. Government officials said the law already has checks. Officers need proper approval before any search. Courts can review actions if rules are not followed.
The viral posts claimed that from April 2026, all digital accounts will come under watch. PIB rejected this claim. The law does not allow mass checking of emails or social media platforms. The focus remains on catching serious tax offenders.
This clarification brings relief to many taxpayers. People who follow tax rules do not need to worry. Digital privacy remains protected. Only serious cases with proof can lead to digital checks.
The PIB fact check highlights the importance of trusting official sources. False news spreads quickly online. Clear information helps reduce fear and confusion.
Also Read – Income Tax Refund Delay: Common Reasons and How to Get Your Refund Faster
