Memphis Standard

U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Thune (R-S.D.) have called on IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel to provide answers regarding a report from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. The report revealed that certain IRS employees can access TikTok on their devices, in violation of the federally mandated No TikTok on Government Devices Act.

In a letter to Commissioner Werfel, the senators expressed their concern over the IRS's failure to comply with the law and implement the ban on TikTok. They highlighted the security risks associated with the Chinese-owned social media platform, which has close ties to the Chinese Communist Party.

The senators emphasized the potential compromise of confidential taxpayer information on devices that have TikTok installed. They noted that the Chinese Communist Party has been actively targeting American institutions, businesses, and citizens' data.

"This is particularly troubling as the Chinese Communist Party continues to target American institutions, businesses, and citizens' data," wrote the senators in their letter.

The full text of the letter can be found [here].

The No TikTok on Government Devices Act was enacted to protect sensitive government information from potential security threats posed by TikTok. The Chinese-owned app has faced scrutiny and concerns over its data practices.

The senators' demand for answers reflects the need for accountability and transparency within the IRS. It is crucial for government agencies to adhere to the laws and regulations put in place to safeguard national security and protect confidential data.