SASKATOON – The federal government is introducing new measures in an effort to crack down on people using or possessing electronic suppression sales software.
ESS software, commonly referred to as “zapper” software, is reputed to selectively delete or modify transactions in point-of-sale systems, leaving no record of the original transaction.
The software is also used in electronic cash registers and business accounting systems.
Minister of National Revenue Kerry-Lynne Findlay announced starting Sept. 1, those using the software, or in possession of it, will face a fine of $5,000 for a first offence and $50,000 for each subsequent offence.
Those developing, making or selling the software will be fined $10,000 for the first offence and $100,000 thereafter. They could also face criminal charges of up to one-million dollars and/or up to five years in jail.
Findlay said ESS software allows businesses to under report revenue and avoid paying taxes, hurting all Canadians.
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