In a significant effort to tackle tax evasion, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has launched a nationwide campaign to block SIM cards of non-filers. This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to promote tax adherence.

With immediate effect, SIM cards of identified non-filers with taxable income are being blocked until May 15, as directed by an FBR notification to telecom companies.

The campaign targets 506,671 individuals who did not file their tax returns for 2023 and are not listed as Active Taxpayers. The process to unblock these SIMs is complex and requires approval from the FBR or relevant commissioner.

This is just the initial phase of the FBR’s plan, with more actions expected in subsequent phases as data on over 2 million individuals is compiled.

Additionally, the FBR has authority to disconnect electricity connections of non-filers, further strengthening enforcement measures for tax compliance.