Your Emails Getting Blocked by SARS? Here is Why
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If you’ve ever sent documents to SARS and received no response, the issue may not be what you said, but how you sent it. SARS has issued new guidance warning that emails with certain types of attachments are frequently flagged as harmful and blocked by their systems even when the content appears legitimate.
Common Reasons for Emails Getting Blocked
PDF or Office documents that contain clickable hyperlinks to external websites
Password-protected or encrypted files that can't be scanned for threats
Executable files or uncommon formats
Documents containing macros or embedded scripts.
These features, while often used for convenience, can also be exploited by cybercriminals prompting SARS to tighten its email security filters.
Recommended Best Practices from SARS
To ensure your email gets delivered and processed:
Upload supporting documents via SARS Online Query System (SOQS) where applicable.
Always include key identifiers in your email:
Organisation name
Income Tax Reference Number (if applicable)
Case number (if applicable)
Avoid placing hyperlinks inside attachments. If you need to include a link, put it directly in the body of your email.
Use standard file formats like plain PDFs, without password protection, encryption, or scripts.
If your files are repeatedly blocked despite following the guidelines, contact SARS to arrange an alternative submission method.
Why This Matters
Following these steps helps prevent delays and ensures SARS can process your query or documentation without technical issues. It also protects all parties from cybersecurity threats. If you regularly correspond with SARS on behalf of clients, these guidelines are essential to keep your workflow smooth and secure.
Read more in the Tax Exempt Institutions Connect Issue 9.
