New Delhi, March 26,2025: In a significant revelation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that encrypted WhatsApp messages played a crucial role in uncovering ₹200 crore in unaccounted money. She highlighted this while discussing the new Income Tax Bill, 2025, which strengthens provisions for tracking digital assets and financial irregularities.
According to the minister, ₹250 crore in unaccounted wealth was exposed through encrypted mobile messages, including evidence of hidden crypto assets. WhatsApp chats, in particular, led investigators to ₹200 crore in undisclosed income, demonstrating the role of digital footprints in financial probes.
“The new Income Tax Bill, 2025, enhances the government’s ability to track digital transactions and assets. It includes provisions to scrutinize encrypted messages and other digital communications to detect financial irregularities,” Sitharaman explained.
With authorities increasingly leveraging technology in tax investigations, the government aims to crack down on undisclosed wealth, money laundering, and tax evasion. The recent revelations indicate that digital platforms, including WhatsApp, are becoming vital tools in exposing financial fraud.
The Finance Minister’s remarks highlight a growing trend where digital forensics and encrypted communication analysis are being used to combat tax evasion and illicit financial activities.
