What Are The New AI-Based Systems Used To Detect Tax Fraud In India?

To combat tax fraud and improve compliance, India has integrated Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Big Data Analytics into its tax systems. These advanced technologies help the Income Tax Department, GST Network (GSTN), and other financial authorities track fraudulent activities, detect anomalies, and enhance tax enforcement.

AI-Based Systems Used to Detect Tax Fraud in India:

1. Advanced Analytics in GSTN (Goods and Services Tax Network)

The GSTN AI System analyzes massive amounts of GST data to identify fake invoices, tax evasion, and fraudulent refund claims. AI helps detect suspicious transactions, shell companies, and unusual input tax credit (ITC) claims.

2. Project INSIGHT (Income Tax Department AI System)

The Income Tax Department launched Project INSIGHT, an AI-driven system that uses big data analytics, machine learning, and social media tracking to detect tax fraud. It helps:

• Identify undisclosed income by analyzing taxpayer spending patterns.
• Detect mismatches between declared income and real financial activities.
• Monitor social media activity for high-value purchases that don’t match tax filings.

3. BIFA (Big Data and Artificial Intelligence in Financial Analysis)

BIFA is used by tax authorities to analyze:

• Bank transactions for undisclosed wealth.
• Stock market and real estate transactions to detect suspicious tax evasion.
• Cross-border financial transactions to identify money laundering cases.

4. AI-Powered Facial Recognition for Tax Compliance

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) uses AI-based facial recognition and biometric verification to:

• Detect fraudulent Permanent Account Number (PAN) card usage.
• Prevent identity theft in tax filings.
• Link PAN with Aadhaar to curb fake taxpayer identities.

5. AI in E-Way Bill and E-Invoicing Systems

The E-Way Bill and E-Invoicing system, powered by AI, helps track:

• Fake transportation claims and tax fraud in logistics.
• Mismatches in e-invoices and GST returns to detect fraudulent activities.
• Businesses issuing fake invoices to claim illegal tax benefits.

6. AI-Based Predictive Analytics for Tax Fraud Detection

Indian tax authorities use predictive analytics to:

• Forecast potential tax evasion risks.
• Identify businesses under-reporting income.
• Detect unusual cash withdrawals and large bank deposits.

7. AI in Blockchain for Secure Tax Transactions

The government is exploring blockchain technology integrated with AI to create tamper-proof financial records, preventing fraud in tax reporting and transactions.

Example:

A business falsely claims high input tax credit (ITC) using fake invoices. AI-based systems in GSTN analyze transaction patterns and detect inconsistencies in:

• Supplier and buyer invoices, identifying missing tax payments.
• E-way bills and transport records, exposing fake shipments.
• Bank transactions, proving no actual payments were made.

Once detected, the system flags the entity for tax audits and legal action, preventing fraudulent refunds and revenue loss.