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We can't use private contractors to do tax work because they might misuse the data

September 01, 2010

The AP reports that Farrah Jones has pleaded guilty to preparing a false return, using data she illicitly acquired while processing taxpayer information to claim refunds on behalf of others. That would pretty much seal the case against allowing her employer to handle confidential information, because obviously there is an inherent flaw in their procedures or culture. It's a good thing they shut down the pilot program for private collection of tax debts.

Except Ms. Jones worked for the IRS.

While this is only one IRS employee, it's one more abuse of private information than was ever linked to the private collection program.

Tags: private collection.tax crime.