FBR warns Customs staff against unauthorized use of social media
By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has cautioned Customs officers and officials against using social media without prior approval, calling such activity a violation of the Government Servants (Conduct) Rules, 1964.
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In a circular issued to all Customs field formations, the FBR said unauthorized participation on platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp and Instagram could amount to misconduct and invite disciplinary action.
The directive refers to Establishment Division memorandums dated Aug. 25, 2021, and Sept. 2, 2024, which bar government servants from sharing official information or documents, expressing political opinions, or making statements that could embarrass the government, undermine national security, or harm public order and morality.
Officials have also been instructed not to disseminate unauthentic or misleading information and to maintain impartiality and propriety in online conduct.
The FBR clarified that constructive use of official social media accounts for public engagement, feedback and service delivery is permitted, provided content is moderated to remove offensive or inappropriate material.
The circular warns that violations, including on group platforms, may result in disciplinary proceedings under the Civil Servants (Efficiency and Discipline) Rules, 2020.
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