HMRC has ramped up its use of technology and data analytics to make sure people pay all the tax they owe, tax barrister Andy Wood has warned. “Even your public social media posts are being scrutinised, as they can provide evidence of suspected financial discrepancies.”

The taxman is legally entitled to view and analyse any publicly available information on Facebook, Instagram and any other platform.

“This includes posts, photos, and videos that may suggest a lifestyle inconsistent with reported income or assets, evidence which can trigger investigations into your finances,” he said.

HMR will go into overdrive as the summer holiday season looms and millions slap up photos of their dream trips. Family and friends may not be the only ones keeping tabs.

"Frequent posts about luxury holidays and expensive purchases by someone reporting minimal income can raise some red flags,” Wood said.

While social media activity alone might not spark an investigation, it plays a key role in corroborating other evidence.

Labour chancellor Rachel Reeves has made cutting tax avoidance a priority, so check your security settings and be mindful of what you share publicly on social media. “Make sure it aligns with your financial declarations to help prevent misunderstandings and potential investigations," Wood said.

As I've reported before, what the taxman knows about you is terrifying.

Public posts are “fair game” for HMRC which will use your online activity to corroborate other evidence, said Adam Collins, marketing expert at of IgniteSEO.

Digital investigators and data analysts now use advanced algorithms to sift through information to identify patterns and anomalies. They may even be able to recover deleted posts.

"Suspicious activity can trigger HMRC audits, requests for additional documentation, and interviews," Collins said.

With fewer hiding places than ever, Collins said it is vital you declare your earnings and assets accurately. He suggests the following tips.

Review your privacy Settings. Ensure your social media privacy settings are up-to-date. Be mindful of what you share publicly, as this information can be accessed by anyone, including HMRC.

Report tax consistently. Ensure that your reported income and assets align with your visible lifestyle. Discrepancies can trigger investigations and potential legal consequences.

Stay informed. Understand how HMRC uses digital tools in investigations. This can help you navigate compliance requirements and avoid pitfalls.

Seek professional advice. If you have concerns about your tax filings or online activities, consider seeking advice from a tax professional or legal adviser. They can provide guidance on best practices and help you stay compliant.

Looking for ways to cut your tax bill legally – see how you could increase your personal allowance to £23,426.