Internet fraud in Kazakhstan is becoming increasingly common as more people integrate digital technologies into their daily lives. Scammers use various schemes to deceive users and obtain their money or personal information.

Common Types of Internet Fraud in Kazakhstan:

1. Phishing:
   Scammers send fake emails or messages that appear to be from banks, popular services, or government agencies. They ask users to log in and enter their passwords or banking details.

2. Fake Online Stores:
   Websites are created to offer popular products at low prices. Once the payment is made, the product is never delivered, and the seller becomes unreachable.

3. Investment Pyramids:
   Fraudsters promise high returns on investments in projects, cryptocurrencies, or other opportunities, which often turn out to be financial pyramids.

4. Online Loans:
   Scammers pretend to offer online loans but ask for upfront fees for "insurance" or "application processing."

5. Romance Scams:
   Using social media or dating websites, scammers build trust with victims and then request money for "urgent needs."

6. Fraud on OLX, Kaspi, and Other Platforms:
   Scammers deceive buyers or sellers by offering fake payment methods or convincing them to make prepayments.

7. SMS Fraud:
   Victims receive messages claiming their bank account is blocked or they’ve won a prize. They are asked to provide card details or pay a fee to "resolve the issue."

How to Combat Internet Fraud in Kazakhstan:

1. Verify Websites and Applications:
   Ensure that the website starts with "https://" and matches official company details.

2. Avoid Suspicious Links:
   Do not click on links in messages or emails from unknown senders.

3. Use Antivirus Software:
   Install and update modern antivirus programs to protect against malware.

4. Do Not Share Personal Information:
   Never share CVV codes, PINs, or passwords with anyone.

5. Choose Trusted Sellers:
   On platforms like OLX and Kaspi, check the seller’s reviews and avoid making prepayments.

6. Enable Two-Factor Authentication:
   This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.

7. Report Scammers:
   If you encounter internet fraud, report it to law enforcement authorities. Kazakhstan has a cyber police department that investigates such cases.

Useful Contacts:

• Cybersecurity Center of the National Security Committee of Kazakhstan: Report any fraud incidents here.
• Bank Hotlines: Contact your bank immediately if you notice suspicious transactions.
• eGov.kz Website: The official portal for filing complaints.

Be cautious and thoroughly verify any information before making decisions!

Recommendations

For children, social media and messenger users,
and other internet service users

To avoid becoming victims of malicious actors, who are widespread on social media, messengers, and the Internet in general, children should remember the following simple rules:

• Never share your personal information, or the personal details of your parents, relatives, or friends (such as full name, date of birth, home address, school, phone number, photos, etc.), with other internet users, even if those users are on your friends list.

• Remember that internet users, including those on websites and social networks, may use fake information, such as fictitious names, photos of other people, or even pictures of children, to deceive others.

• Do not be afraid of threats from internet users. In reality, they cannot harm you or your loved ones. Such threats are usually meant to scare children into submission. At the first sign of a threat, immediately inform your parents, siblings, teachers, or any other trusted adult. Do not hesitate to speak out!

• Never follow commands or instructions from other users of social networks, messengers, or any other internet resources. The simplest action you can take is to block their accounts.

• Do not accept friend requests from strangers on social media, messengers, or other online services.

• Avoid installing remote access applications. Before downloading or installing anything, research the application online to understand its purpose and functionality.

By following these rules, children can protect themselves from online threats and avoid becoming victims of fraud or manipulation.