SARS says made 'significant investment' in eFiling security
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has responded to the Office of the Tax Ombudsman’s (OTO) draft report on cases of compromised eFiling profiles, noting that it will provide input as part of the public comment process.
In a statement, SARS said it has already integrated many of the OTO’s recommendations into its ongoing modernisation programme.
These include improving authentication protocols, strengthening fraud-risk detection, optimising refund-verification systems, and collaborating with the banking sector, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), and the South African Police Service.
“SARS remains committed to strengthening the critical areas that have been highlighted,” the statement said.
The revenue authority emphasised the importance of its relationship with the OTO, saying: “Promotion of cooperation between these vital institutions, SARS and OTO, is critical for the functioning of the tax system.”
SARS added that the risks posed by cybercrime are “evolving and growing,” and that it has committed significant investment into modernising its tax administration platform as part of its current five-year strategic plan.
“Many of the recommendations in the OTO report have already begun and will be continually reviewed and enhanced as the goal posts shift,” the statement said.
SARS noted that the measures are intended to strengthen its security systems in response to the changing nature of cybercrime. It said it would share its insights with the OTO.
“SARS believes that any compromised profile is one too many. All role players must play their part to prevent criminals from accessing taxpayers’ information.”
Taxpayers have been urged to safeguard confidential details and only use secure internet platforms to access electronic services.
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