Pakistan targets social media ‘show-offs’ in crackdown on tax evaders

Pakistan’s Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has compiled extensive data on social media users who flaunt wealth online but have failed to file their income tax returns, according to official sources.

The FBR, with the help of its Social Media Lifestyle Monitoring Team, has identified individuals showcasing luxury lifestyles, including expensive vehicles, designer clothes, lavish homes, yachts, and jewelry, without submitting their tax declarations.

Sources say those displaying cash handouts at weddings, musical events, qawwali gatherings, and dance parties—and failing to file returns—will also face scrutiny.

The agency has reportedly completed detailed profiles of these individuals, with assistance from the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). The collected information includes credit and ATM card activity, spending patterns, and records of international travel.

The crackdown on non-filers who exhibit wealth on social media is expected to begin on October 1, officials said. Those involved have until September 30 to file their tax returns—a deadline that will not be extended, according to FBR sources.

Individuals showing off expensive meals at luxury hotels are also under review. Enforcement actions will include notices and possible legal proceedings.

This move is part of a broader government effort to expand the tax net by targeting high-income earners who live beyond their declared means.

The FBR has provisionally collected PKR 886 billion during August against the assigned monthly target of PKR 950 billion, reflecting a shortfall of PKR 64 billion.

During the first two months of current fiscal year (2025-26), the provisional tax collection totalled PKR 1,650.5 billion against the target of PKR 1,698 billion, reflecting a shortfall of PKR 47.5 billion.

The FBR has fixed target of PKR 3.08 trillion for the first quarter of FY26.