IG flags problems with IRS modernization program

“We observed that without proper controls to monitor and resolve the
MeF system security vulnerabilities and findings, unauthorized access to
taxpayer information would continue to be available and possibly go
undetected,” the report states.

The report also notes the new e-filing system was expected to process more
than 9 million tax returns this tax season, but problems with the
application reduced the actual number of returns processed to about 750,000.

“Further, management of the project costs and schedules has improved
since our previous report, but the IRS has not always effectively
implemented planned processes or delivered all planned system
capabilities to achieve the Modernization Program’s expectations,” Mr.
George added.

The IG avoiding making additional recommendations in the report, but stressed that effective management would be necessary for the success of BSM.