New whistleblower portal to combat tax crime: What you need to know
On 10 April 2025, the Schleswig-Holstein Ministry of Finance launched a new digital whistleblowing portal designed to make it easier to report anonymous tips about potential tax offences, whilst also ensuring they can be utilised more effectively. The aim is to combat tax crime in a more targeted and efficient manner.
Until now, tips regarding tax offences could only be submitted by post, telephone or email – including anonymously. The new portal now provides a secure digital channel through which whistleblowers and the tax investigation department can communicate with one another anonymously.
How does the new whistleblower portal work?
- Whistleblowers can use the new system to submit anonymous reports to the Central Audit Services Tax Office (FA ZPD).
- This requires the creation of a digital mailbox through which enquiries from the tax investigation department can be answered anonymously.
- This enables better traceability and a more thorough investigation, as many pieces of information are not sufficient on their own to initiate a criminal investigation without further enquiries.
- The traditional methods of contact – by post, telephone or email – remain available.
What does this mean for businesses and individuals?
The new system clearly shows that the tax authorities are stepping up their efforts to combat tax evasion. For businesses and individuals alike, this means that the likelihood of any tax irregularities being detected is increasing.
Particularly in the case of internal conflicts or through former employees, sensitive information can now reach the authorities much more easily via this channel – and completely anonymously.
Our advice: Exercise caution and carry out checks in good time
We recommend that companies and individuals have their tax affairs reviewed on a regular basis – particularly in sensitive areas such as revenue records, accounting systems or cross-border business relationships.
Do you have any questions or need legal advice?
Whether it is a voluntary disclosure, an internal tax audit or defending a client in the event of a criminal investigation – our Law firm is on hand to assist you discreetly and professionally.
Please feel free to contact us in confidence, if you require legal advice or assistance in connection with the new whistleblower portal or tax law matters.