The passwords of systems maintaining sensitive data of imports /exports, income tax returns, sales tax returns and returns analysis software/ applications would immediately be changed across Pakistan in all tax offices and customs offices to avert access of sensitive information to unauthorized persons, data leakage and unauthorized transactions. In this regard, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued instructions to the chief commissioners, chief collectors and director generals here on Tuesday on the issue of unauthorized sharing of passwords of IT applications.

The FBR has ordered all heads of field formations to immediately change passwords of IRIS, Web Based One Customs clearance system (WEBOC), Integrated Test Management System (ITMS) and other applications to avert access of sensitive information to unauthorized persons, data leakage and unauthorized transactions.

According to the FBR, it has been repeatedly observed that a large number of officers routinely share their passwords for IRIS, WEBOC, ITMS and other applications with their subordinate staff. The purpose of password is to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to the systems. Password sharing has the potential of granting access to sensitive information to unauthorized persons, data leakage and unauthorized transactions. It is not only against the law but also violates administrative instructions issued from time to time.

Chief commissioners, chief collectors and director generals are requested to direct all officers and officials having access to IT systems of the FBR to change their password immediately and not to share them with anyone else in future, the FBR added.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2018