Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senators John Thune and Marsha Blackburn have demanded answers from IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel regarding the agency's failure to comply with the No TikTok on Government Devices Act. The act, which was included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, bans the use of TikTok on any federal device due to security risks associated with the Chinese-owned social media application.

In a letter to Commissioner Werfel, the senators expressed concern over a report from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) that found over 2,800 mobile devices used by IRS Criminal Investigation employees can access TikTok. The report also highlighted that the IRS has not updated its policies governing the "Bring Your Own Device" program, which allows IRS personnel to use their personal devices for work purposes.

The senators emphasized that the IRS's lack of action in implementing the ban on TikTok has potentially compromised confidential taxpayer information. They raised concerns about TikTok's close ties to the Chinese Communist Party and its alarming data practices. As the Chinese Communist Party continues to target American institutions, businesses, and citizens' data, the senators urged the IRS to take immediate steps to ensure that employees are unable to access TikTok.

Thune and Blackburn have requested written responses from Commissioner Werfel to several questions by February 8, 2024, regarding the IRS's failure to comply with the No TikTok on Government Devices Act and the steps being taken to rectify the situation.

The use of TikTok on federal devices poses significant security risks, and it is essential for government agencies to uphold the ban to protect sensitive information. The senators' demand for answers highlights the importance of ensuring the IRS's ability to safeguard confidential taxpayer information and prevent potential breaches.

The IRS must take swift action to address this issue and ensure that all employees are aware of the ban on TikTok. The senators' letter serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party and the need for heightened security measures to protect American institutions and citizens' data.