BIR probes possible taxpayer data exposure

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said that it is already looking into possible exposure of taxpayer profile information after recent incidents of cybersecurity attack early this month.

"The initial findings further indicate that certain taxpayer profile information may have been exposed. The BIR, in coordination with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and the Department of Information and Technology - National Computer Emergency Response Team (DICT-NCERT), is conducting a forensic investigation to verify the source and extent of any unauthorized access," the BIR said in a statement.

The cybersecurity incidents happened last November 6 and 7, to which the BIR immediately responded.

"The BIR assures the public that the integrity of all internal database infrastructure and system remain intact. Initial findings indicate that no taxpayer information were modified or lost, and no records on filing and payment were compromised," the bureau also said.

Following the incidents, the BIR reminded the public to safeguard their accounts by updating account credentials and passwords. It also advised to enable multi-factor authentication if available and be aware of phishing and other fraudulent activities.

Further, the BIR advised that all transactions with the bureau must be conducted only through its official channels and platforms. —VAL, GMA News