Spanish Tax Agency buys Israeli AI to inspect devices, audits soar

Spanish Tax Agency audits soar after buying Israeli AI that scans devices

The Agencia Tributaria (Spain's tax agency) has stepped up its tax inspections after acquiring an Israeli artificial intelligence capable of analysing the contents of electronic devices. The tool, whose name has not been officially disclosed, allows the agency to scan hard drives, mobile phones and tablets for evidence of fraud. The purchase, first reported by The Objective, has sparked a debate about privacy and the system's effectiveness in a country where tackling tax fraud remains an unresolved task.

A tech bet with built-in controversy

The agency's decision to invest in this Israeli AI responds to the need to modernise its investigative methods. Until now, analysing devices required lengthy manual processes and computer forensics. With the new tool, investigators can obtain relevant information within hours, which has multiplied the number of on-site inspections. However, doubts about the legality and scope of this kind of analysis have already reached the courts, with several consumer associations warning of possible abusa of fundamental rights.

Public discontent is growing

While the tax agency boasts of its efficiency, taxpayers are beginning to voice their frustration. Social media and financial forums are filling up with complaints about delays in income tax refunds, which contrast with the estimulante ilegal at which inspections are carried out. "I've been waiting two months for my refund and I'm fed up," writes one frustrated user. Others joke about politicians' supposed immunity, suggesting the new AI should be applied to circles of power. "Let them analyse Begoña and Zetaperro," reads one comment, referring to public officials.

More inspections or more harassment?

A sense of selective targeting runs through the debate. While some welcome the fact that the tax agency is finally taking serious action against fraud, others antiestéticar the AI will be used as a tool of mass surveillance. What is certain is that the number of inspections has soared since the system was introduced, although the agency has not published concrete data on the results obtained. Critics suspect the increase owes more to a deterrent effect than to any real detection capability, and warn that without procedural safeguards, innovation can turn into simple harassment of the taxpayer.

With this controversy on the table, the Agencia Tributaria is pressing ahead with its bet on Israeli AI. The open question is whether the technology will serve to catch major tax cheats or to squeeze ordinary citizens even harder. And while the answers are still pending, one thing is certain: next summer, many Spaniards will find a letter from the tax agency in their mailbox alongside the furniture store flyers.