The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has warned taxpayers against engaging the services of those in the online business in securing Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).
BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui, Jr. said those who offer the services were found to be operating on social media and popular online selling sites.
"These offerings for TINs assistance are not authorized by the BIR," said Lumagui.
The BIR chief said the bureau has already asked representatives of online platform providers to remove all advertisements and postings related to TIN assistance.
He said BIR regional and district offices have conducted entrapment operations across the country which led to the arrest of some individuals.
Selling or counterfeiting TIN cards is punishable by fines and imprisonment under Section 257 of the Tax Code.
Lumagui stressed that TIN is free of charge and does not require the involvement of third parties.
To ensure the authenticity of TINs, Lumagui advised individuals to transact only with authorized revenue personnel at the revenue district office (RDO) responsible for their jurisdiction.
He also urged the public to report any sellers of TINs to the BIR involvement of third parties. through number (02) 8538-3200 or via email at [email protected].