FBR Targets Social Media Influencers Over Luxury Lifestyles

Pakistan’s tax authorities have intensified scrutiny of high-profile individuals who publicly display lavish lifestyles on social media, with the Federal Board of Revenue’s Lifestyle Monitoring Unit flagging several cases involving luxury vehicles worth hundreds of millions of rupees.

According to sources obtained by TechJuice, the FBR has begun issuing tax notices to individuals who own high-end cars valued in crores after internal reports indicated a mismatch between declared income and visible spending. Field offices across the country have reportedly started formal proceedings based on findings compiled by the Lifestyle Monitoring Unit.

Sources confirm that notices have also been issued to a well-known garage owner in Islamabad, as authorities widen the scope of their investigation beyond influencers to businesses and individuals linked to luxury asset ownership.

One prominent social media influencer has drawn particular attention for allegedly owning an extensive collection of luxury vehicles, including a Chevrolet Camaro SS, GMC Sierra Denali, Mercedes-Benz, Bentley Mulsanne, Jeep Wrangler, Ford F-150, BMW, Jaguar XK 4.2, Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray, and a Polaris Slingshot SL 2.4. Officials estimate the combined value of these vehicles to exceed Rs 6 billion.

The FBR is reportedly conducting a detailed comparison of the influencer’s publicly visible lifestyle with declared tax records. Sources say the scale of luxury assets and expenditure displayed on social media platforms does not align with the individual’s reported income, raising red flags for tax authorities.

Officials note that a clear discrepancy has emerged between income declarations and spending patterns, prompting consideration of a formal tax audit. The case is expected to be selected for in-depth examination under existing tax laws.

Under Pakistan’s tax laws, if you can’t explain your assets or spending, you might find yourself facing audits, a reassessment of your income, and even penalties for unpaid taxes. The tax authorities are likely to ask for detailed documentation, such as proof of income, banking records, and business transactions, to ensure that what you’ve declared matches up with what you’re actually spending.

Sources indicate that FBR field offices have already issued tax notices to more than a dozen individuals based on open displays of wealth on social media, including luxury vehicles, properties, and high-value consumption.