The Association of Russian Banks (ARB) has complained about an increase in requests for information constituting banking secrecy from tax authorities. Letters have been sent to the Federal Tax Service (FNS) and the Bank of Russia, RBC reported. The problem emerged in the summer of 2026.
Tax inspectors refer to Article 26.10 of the Code of Administrative Offenses (KoAP), although the standard procedure is Article 86 of the Tax Code. The National Council of Financial Market (NSFR) confirmed isolated cases, but the scale is difficult to assess. The Association of Banks of Russia has not received such appeals. The Bank of Russia will review the letter.
The difference is fundamental: a tax audit requires grounds and affects a limited circle of persons, while administrative proceedings do not. If this practice takes root, banking secrecy will cease to be a secret: a request under the KoAP will open client accounts. Banks are asking to return the procedure to the framework of the Tax Code.