Kazakhstan: MP Raises Alarm Over Surge in Phone Fraud

MP Askhat Rakhimzhanov has expressed concern over the sharp rise in telephone fraud across Kazakhstan. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, 67 million fraudulent calls were intercepted in the first nine months of 2025 — an average of three to four per citizen, Orda.kz reports.

Rakhimzhanov reminded colleagues that parliament had already passed amendments in the summer requiring telecom operators to ensure biometric registration of SIM cards, yet fraudulent calls from Kazakhstani numbers continue. He addressed questions to the Ministry of Digital Development and the National Bank, asking what measures were being taken to block illegal traffic and how effectively the anti-fraud center was operating.

Deputy Minister of Digitalization Rostislav Konyashkin explained that most fraudulent calls are made not through mobile networks, but via messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Telegram.

As you all know, you can register an account without owning a SIM card. Regulations have been adopted regarding traffic blocking and the implementation of biometric identification, and operators are already implementing these tools. We expect to see a reduction in the number of SIM cards registered with fake data.

He added that the ministry is ready to consider additional proposals from MPs and, if necessary, amend the bill.

Deputy Chair of the National Bank Berik Sholpankulov noted that starting in 2026, mobile operators will join the anti-fraud center, enabling automatic data exchange on fraudulent activity.

Considering the latest amendments adopted in July, telecom operators must establish automatic information exchange with the anti-fraud center. We are ready to consider proposals to increase their accountability. The center has been operating since 2024, there are developments, and we are open to discussion,
 he emphasized.

Original Author: Artyom Volkov