Toqayev Orders Tougher Penalties for Data Leaks, Greater Focus on Cybersecurity

President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev has ordered stricter penalties for leaking personal data and called for more frequent public education on cybersecurity rules, Orda.kz reports.

At a meeting of the Security Council, National Security Committee Chair Yermek Sagimbayev and Minister of Digitalization Zhaslan Madiyev presented their reports.

Cyber threats and methods of countering them, protecting critical information infrastructure, developing the cybersecurity industry and improving the personnel training system were discussed,  Aqorda said following the meeting.

According to the presidential office, some government agencies will be granted expanded powers to investigate cybercrimes. Fraudulent schemes have become more frequent, and Toqayev instructed officials to strengthen efforts to combat them.

The issue of personal data leaks was also raised. Toqayev emphasized the importance of preventive work, saying the public should be regularly reminded about cybersecurity practices.

Since the beginning of 2025, Kazakhstan has recorded more than 40 major personal data leaks. The main cause has been the human factor — company employees selling client information for payment.

Original Author: Zarina Fayzulina