House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan, a Republican from Ohio, is launching an investigation alongside Rep. Harriet Hageman, a Republican from Wyoming, into allegations that the IRS is using artificial intelligence (AI) technology to unlawfully surveil American taxpayers. In a letter addressed to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Attorney General Merrick Garland, the lawmakers refer to a press release from September 2023 in which the IRS stated that AI would aid in detecting tax cheating and improving compliance tools. However, recent reports suggest that the IRS has been actively monitoring citizens’ bank accounts without legal process.
The lawmakers cite a report by James O’Keefe’s O’Keefe Media Group, which claims that the IRS’s use of AI includes mass surveillance of American citizens’ financial information. The report alleges that Alex Mena, an IRS official, admitted on video to the use of AI technology to target potential fraud. Mena is said to have claimed that the new AI system can access and monitor information from all companies worldwide. This revelation has raised concerns about the IRS’s respect for Americans’ civil liberties.
It is important to note that the IRS has previously stated that it will not increase audit rates for individuals earning less than $400,000 per year. However, Jordan and Hageman believe that the IRS may be collaborating with other federal agencies to carry out warrantless financial surveillance using AI technology.
The use of AI technology to actively monitor private financial transactions without legal process is highly troubling. This widespread financial surveillance, conducted in coordination with federal law enforcement, raises doubts about the IRS’s and the federal government’s commitment to protecting Americans’ civil liberties.
Digital reached out to the Treasury, the Justice Department, and the IRS for comment on these allegations. As this investigation unfolds, it will be crucial to ensure that the proper safeguards are in place to protect the privacy and rights of American taxpayers.
