Tax authority removes from leadership position auditor suspected of accessing data of Gilmar's ex-stepdaughter
An auditor from Brazil's federal tax agency has been removed from his position amid allegations of unauthorized access to personal data of a high-profile minister's family member.
Ricardo Mansano de Moraes, a fiscal auditor at Brazil's Federal Revenue Service, has been removed from his leadership role in the Tax Credit Management department following allegations of unauthorized access to the personal information of the ex-stepdaughter of Supreme Court Minister Gilmar Mendes. The removal comes as part of an investigation ordered by Minister Alexandre de Moraes, who suspects that Mansano may have accessed sensitive data without proper justification. This situation has raised serious concerns about data privacy and the accountability of public servants in Brazil.
Mansano's role allowed him to temporarily lead the team during the legitimate absences of the primary department chief, pointing to the gravity of the allegations given his position's power. The decision to remove him was published in the Official Gazette of the Union, highlighting the government's commitment to addressing potential misconduct within its ranks. However, the Federal Revenue Service has chosen not to comment on the specifics of the case, which may contribute to public speculation regarding the integrity of its officials.
The incident also underscores broader implications for Brazil's legal and political frameworks, especially concerning data security within government agencies. The involvement of a Supreme Court minister adds a layer of complexity to the investigation, as it intertwines issues of governance, justice, and individual privacy rights. The case is emblematic of the challenges facing Brazilian authorities in maintaining ethical standards among public servants while safeguarding the privacy of individuals, particularly those connected to influential figures.