Edward Snowden Claims CIA Used as a Rogue Tax Collector June 13, 2013 William McBride William McBride Either Edward Snowden has a fantastic imagination or the CIA has completely overstepped international norms to get at U.S. citizens’ Swiss bank accounts. As reported from tax-news: Swiss Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter has underlined his astonishment at allegations that US secret agents used underhand means to recruit a Swiss banker, to gain access to secret banking information for the purposes of tracking down cases of tax evasion by US citizens. According to whistleblower Edward Snowden, US CIA officials plied the Swiss employee with drink before persuading the banker to drive home. Once apprehended and arrested for drink driving, the undercover agents offered assistance in return for tax data from the Swiss bank. Burkhalter revealed on SRF radio that Switzerland has already submitted a request for further information and clarification on the issue to the US embassy. The Swiss Foreign Minister made clear that Switzerland would not take action until the Confederation is in full possession of the facts. He nevertheless emphasized his surprise at the shocking allegations, warning that, if confirmed, they would constitute a breach of the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations. Follow William McBride on Twitter @EconoWill Stay informed on the tax policies impacting you. Subscribe to get insights from our trusted experts delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe Share Tweet Share Email Topics Center for Federal Tax Policy International Taxes