The IRS is developing a system to provide ICE with automated access to taxpayer home addresses. This initiative raises substantial concerns regarding individual privacy, as it removes previous protections against unwarranted data transfers to law enforcement agencies. IRS insiders warn that such a system may lead to immigration agents mistakenly raiding incorrect or outdated addresses. The creation of this system signifies a shift towards a government surveillance model that could undermine privacy rights and set harmful precedents for future data-sharing practices between government entities.
The system that the IRS is now creating would give ICE automated access to home addresses en masse, limiting the ability of IRS officials to consider the legality of transfers.
IRS insiders who reviewed a copy of the blueprint said it could result in immigration agents raiding wrong or outdated addresses.
This IRS system takes away a barrier and sets precedent for future systems of a single-entity government to surveil citizens.
Taxpayer data is among the most confidential in the federal government and is protected by strict privacy laws, which have historically limited its transfer to law enforcement.
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