Digital Accounts

Starting April 1, 2026, the Income Tax Department will have the legal authority to access personal emails. They can also access social media accounts, bank accounts, trading platforms, and online investment accounts. This is applicable if they suspect tax evasion or undisclosed income. This expansion of power is introduced in the new Income Tax Bill. It allows tax officials to override access codes. They can break into digital spaces under the new provisions. This is similar to how they conduct physical searches under Section 132 of the Income Tax Act, 1961. How the IT Department Can Now Break Into Your…