Tax Ombud Delays Report on eFiling Hijack Probe After SARS Requests Time

SARS has now been granted until 31 August 2025 to formally respond to the preliminary findings and recommendations contained in the draft report.

The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) has officially announced a postponement of the public release of its much-anticipated draft report on the alleged hijacking of SARS eFiling profiles. The report, which stems from an in-depth investigation into the alleged unauthorized access and manipulation of taxpayers' eFiling accounts, was initially due for public comment on 7 July 2025.

However, the OTO confirmed that it had granted an extension following a formal request from South African Revenue Service (SARS) Commissioner Edward Kieswetter. SARS has now been granted until 31 August 2025 to formally respond to the preliminary findings and recommendations contained in the draft report.

A Matter of Procedural Fairness and Transparency

The Tax Ombud emphasized that the decision was made in the interest of procedural fairness and inclusive dialogue. "The Tax Ombud has considered this request and, in the interest of procedural fairness, transparency, and ensuring that all perspectives are adequately considered, the Tax Ombud granted the extension," read the official OTO statement.

By extending the timeline, the OTO aims to foster a more thorough and constructive engagement between the two entities, particularly as the draft findings reportedly contain systemic implications related to taxpayer data security and SARS platform management.

Alleged Hijacking of eFiling Profiles

The investigation into alleged eFiling hijacking was launched following numerous complaints from taxpayers who claimed their SARS eFiling profiles were accessed without their consent. In many cases, this reportedly resulted in unauthorized filings, changes in banking details, and, in some instances, fraudulent tax refunds issued to incorrect accounts.

Although SARS had previously introduced several security enhancements, including two-factor authentication and transaction alerts, allegations of data breaches and unauthorized profile activity persisted. The matter became a focus of national concern, prompting the Tax Ombud to open a formal systemic investigation.

Ensuring Robust, Fair Outcomes

According to the OTO, the extension until the end of August 2025 will allow SARS to engage "meaningfully with the contents of the report and provide a comprehensive response." This is seen as vital in ensuring that the final draft incorporates SARS's perspective, and leads to balanced policy recommendations that can effectively address both individual and systemic vulnerabilities.

In a move praised by tax law experts and civil society organizations, the OTO reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and its constitutional mandate to protect taxpayer rights.

"The OTO assures all taxpayers and stakeholders that the investigation and the resulting report remain a top priority," the statement emphasized. "The OTO continues to take this matter seriously and reaffirms its mandate to address systemic issues and promote fairness in the tax administration system."

What's Next?

The final draft report, once SARS has submitted its formal input, is now expected to be released for public comment in early September 2025. During the public comment period, individual taxpayers, industry experts, legal professionals, and advocacy groups will have the opportunity to scrutinize the findings and contribute to shaping the final recommendations.

Once finalized, the report could have significant implications for SARS operational procedures, including enhancements in cybersecurity, customer verification, and accountability frameworks in cases of fraudulent activity.

Until then, the OTO encourages taxpayers to report any irregular activity on their eFiling profiles and to remain vigilant against digital fraud. SARS has also urged users to regularly update their passwords, verify third-party access, and monitor activity through the eFiling portal.

As the South African public awaits the final findings, the spotlight remains firmly on both the OTO and SARS to demonstrate their commitment to fairness, data protection, and effective tax administration.